Physics Curriculum

Here's an overview of the lower division and upper division requirement classes, as well as the electives offered in the department.

Lower Division Course Requirements

The physics major requires the completion of one of the introductory physics sequences, either the Physics 7 series or the Physics 5 series, as well as Physics 89.

The Physics 7 Series comprises Physics 7A, 7B, and 7C, and is the standard introductory physics sequence for science and engineering majors. Physics 7A presents a basic introduction to Newtonian mechanics, Physics 7B is split between classical thermodynamics and electromagnetism, and Physics 7C describes optics, special relativity, and quantum mechanics. For homework assignments, the Physics 7 series utilizes MasteringPhysics, an online web application for physics problems. The Physics 7 series is focused more on computational details than the theory behind the subject. Each course contains a lab component within the course.

The Physics 5 Series comprises Physics 5A, 5B/5BL, and 5C/5CL, and is the honors introductory physics sequence specifically geared towards physics majors. 5 Series courses tend to be smaller in size and also mostly attended by intended physics majors. The curriculum for the 5 Series is somewhat different than that of the 7 Series. Physics 5A describes classical mechanics and special relativity. Physics 5B focuses on electromagnetism, waves, and optics. Physics 5C mostly involves quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics, a more fundamental treatment of thermodynamics. The 5 Series tends to be more theoretical and rigorous, but provides a very strong foundation for upper division coursework. While Physics 5A has no lab component, Physics 5B and 5C are accompanied by separate, companion lab courses Physics 5BL and 5CL, which are more comprehensive introductions to experimental physics culminating in a capstone project in 5CL.

Physics 89 is the lower division introduction to mathematical physics, including linear algebra, complex numbers, tensors, and differential equations. Physics 89 cannot be substituted by any linear algebra class except for Math 54, and only then in cases where there is a double major with mathematics.