The physics department offers a variety of 1xxx-level courses that can be distinguished by the math background they require. Some majors require specific physics sequences.
1. A working knowledge of high school algebra required:
Phys 1001W Energy and the Environment
(Meets CLE req of Envt Theme, Phys/L, and WI)
Terminal course. Fundamental principles governing physical world in context of energy/environment.
2. A working knowledge of high school algebra and geometry required, trigonometry recommended:
Phys 1101W Introductory College Physics
(Meets CLE req of Phys/L and WI)
Continues to Phys 1102W.
Fundamental principles of physics in the context of everyday world. Use of conservation principles and quantitative/qualitative problem solving techniques to understand natural phenomena.
3. High school algebra, trigonometry, and calculus required, college calculus recommended:
Phys 1201W Introductory Physics for Pre-Medicine and Biology I
(Meets CLE req of Phys/L and WI)
Continues to Phys 1202W.
Fundamental principles of physics. Description of motion, forces, conservation principles, structure of matter. Application to mechanical systems, including fluids, waves, heat.
4. Completion of, or concurrent registration in, Math 1271 or equivalent required:
Phys 1301W Introductory Physics for Science and Engineering I
(Meets CLE req of Phys/L and WI)
Continues to Phys 1302W and 2xxx level physics courses.
Use of fundamental principles to solve quantitative problems. Motion, forces, conservation principles, structure of matter. Applications to mechanical systems.
5. Selection for the IT Honors Curriculum or consent of the CLA Honors Division required. Completion of, or concurrent registration in, Math 1271 or equivalent required. Phys 1401V-Phys 1402V (equivalent to the 1301W-1302W sequence)
For more information, contact the director of undergraduate studies in physics (624-7375).
CLA majors with physics requirements
| | Phys 1101W or higher |
| Astronomy | Phys 1301W-1302W continues to upper level work |
| Biology | Phys 1201W-1202W or Phys 1301W-1302W |
| Chemistry | Phys 1301W-1302W |
| Geology | Phys 1301W-1302W Phys 1201W-1202W or Phys 1301W-1302W |
| Physics | Phys 1301W-1302W continues to upper level work |
| Physiology | Phys 1201W-1202W or Phys 1301W-1302W |
Common Non-CLA & Pre-Professional Programs with physics requirements
| Architecture | Phys 1101W or higher |
College of Biological Sciences (all majors) | Phys 1201W-1202W or Phys 1301W-1302W |
| Dentistry | Phys 1101W-1102W or higher-level sequence depending on undergraduate major requirements |
Information Networking | Phys 1301W-1302W |
Institute of Technology (all majors) | Phys 1301W-1302W |
| Kinesiology | Phys 1101W or higher |
| Medicine | Phys 1201W-1202W or higher-level sequence depending on undergraduate major requirements |
| Network Administration | Phys 1101W-1102W |
| Pharmacy | Phys 1101W-1102W or higher-level sequence depending on undergraduate major requirements |
| Physical Therapy | Phys 1101W-1102W or higher-level sequence depending on undergraduate major requirements |
| Veterinary Medicine | Phys 1101W-1102W or higher-level sequence depending on undergraduate major requirements |
Related Information
Orientation
The Physics Department
Related Questions
Who should choose a physics major?
Physics majors must do well in math. The Physics B.A. is an excellent preparation for graduate school, law school, or education. Those wishing to use the degree for scientific or technical careers must pursue related internships during college.
