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Requirements

Requirements for the BA in Physics (57 semester hours)

39-45 semester hours in Physics, 8 semester hours in Mathematics, 4 semester hours in Computer Science, up to 9 semester hours in allied disciplines

Core courses

  • PHYS 221 Introductory Physics I (4)
  • PHYS 221Y Introductory Physics I Lab (1)
  • PHYS 222 Introductory Physics II (4)
  • PHYS 222Y Introductory Physics II Lab (1)
  • PHYS 223 Modern Physics (4)
  • PHYS 223Y Modern Physics Lab (1)
  • PHYS 390W Scientific Communication in Physics (2)
  • PHYS 392 Advanced Techniques in Experimental Physics (2)
  • One course chosen in from among the following:
    • An additional half semester of PHYS 392 (2)
    • PHYS 340 Advanced Data Analysis and Simulation (2)
    • BIOL 235 Experimental Methods in Biology 

Choose three courses from the following (12 semester hours)

Senior Projects

Additional requirements

  • MATH 249 Multivariable Calculus (4)
  • MATH 256 Differential Equations (4)
  • CS 151 Introduction to Programming with Python (4)
  • Four credits at the 200 level or above chosen from any of the following disciplines: Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental  Science, Exercise and Health Science, Computer Science or Data Science (4) 

Requirements for the BS in Physics (57 semester hours)

45 semester hours in Physics, 8 semester hours in Mathematics, 4 semester hours in Computer Science

Core courses

  • PHYS 221 Introductory Physics I (1)
  • PHYS 221Y Introductory Physics I Lab (1)
  • PHYS 222 Introductory Physics II (4)
  • PHYS 222Y Introductory Physics II Lab (1)
  • PHYS 223 Modern Physics (4)
  • PHYS 223Y Modern Physics Lab (1)
  • PHYS 310 Mechanics (4)
  • PHYS 320 Thermal Physics (4)
  • PHYS 324 Electromagnetism (4)
  • PHYS 328 Quantum Mechanics (4)
  • PHYS 390W Scientific Communication in Physics (2)
  • PHYS 392 Advanced Techniques in Experimental Physics (2) 
  • One course chosen from between the following:
    • An additional half semester of PHYS 392 (2)
    • PHYS 340 Advanced Data Analysis and Simulation (2)

Senior Projects

Additional requirements

  • Four additional semester hours in Physics numbered above 200 (4)
  • MATH 249 Multivariable Calculus (4)
  • MATH 256 Differential Equations (4)
  • CS 151 Introduction to Programming with Python (4)

Graduate schools often require students take courses similar to PHYS 320 (Thermal Physics), PHYS 324 (Electromagnetism), and PHYS 328 (Quantum Mechanics). Students intending to do graduate study in Physics should consider further mathematical study in linear algebra and complex variables. Students preparing for careers in engineering or applied science should consider taking PHYS 399 (Materials Science) and PHYS 324 Electromagnetism plus one other course beyond the basic six. Students with other goals in mind should consult the faculty concerning their choice of elective courses beyond the basic six.

Requirements for the Physics Minor (23 semester hours)

  • PHYS 221 Introductory Physics I (4)
  • PHYS 221Y Introductory Physics I Lab (1)
  • PHYS 222 Introductory Physics II (4)
  • PHYS 222Y Introductory Physics II Lab (1)
  • PHYS 223 Modern Physics (4)
  • PHYS 223Y Modern Physics Lab (1)
  • Eight additional Physics semester hours at 300- or 400-level (8)

Willamette University

Physics

  • Salem Campus

    Address

    Collins Science Center
    900 State Street
    Salem Oregon 97301 U.S.A.

    Contact

    503-370-6894

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