Bachelor of Science Major in Physics with Departmental Honors

University of the Pacific

The Bachelor of Science in Physics degree program is the standard preparation for professional careers in physics and related physical sciences. Graduates may enter industrial and government positions directly at the BS level or may proceed to graduate study in preparation for higher level research positions.In addition to the Standard Track for the Bachelor of Science in Physics described above, students may choose a focused concentration for their studies, and follow one of the two concentrations below. These concentrations engage the student further in areas where our department has particular expertise and resources.Astrophysics ConcentrationThrough coursework and projects that uses the department’s astronomical telescopes (optical and radio) and other equipment, students in the Astrophysics Concentration enhance their understanding of the Universe beyond the Earth. Students in this concentration are required to take Astrophysics PHYS 140 and one of Cosmology PHYS 141, Optics PHYS 105, or Special Topics PHYS 093, and their Senior Thesis (PHYS 199) involves either an experimental or theoretical astrophysics project.Theoretical Physics ConcentrationThis concentration is for students who are mathematically inclined or intending to double major with Math, focusing on theoretical aspects of physics, deepening the student's expertise through the application of mathematical methods to study physical phenomena. It is satisfied by any two courses from: Mathematical Physics PHYS 137, Particle Physics PHYS 111, Optics PHYS 105, Cosmology PHYS 141, or Special Topics PHYS 093.OutcomesConceptual and Analytical CapabilitiesMap physical problems into a set of equations and solve them using analytical/numerical methods.Identify the relevant physical principles that govern the dynamics of physical problems and obtain solutions for these problems in the areas of (1) classical mechanics, (2) electromagnetism, (3) statistical mechanics, and (4) quantum mechanics/special relativity.Inquiry and Research CapabilitiesPropose a research project, complete the necessary theoretical background study required for the project, design an experiment or write a computer program for performing necessary calculation/ simulation, and analyze the results to verify/nullify the hypothesis.Communication CapabilitiesMake clear and effective presentations of research projects in both written and oral form.

College of the Pacific