Pictured | Jeff Yoder | Physics / Minors in | Earth and Space Science; and German | Goshen, Indiana (hometown)
Student Government Association (treasurer)

Bachelor of Science in Physics

Track Recommendations

Programming

Programming skills are valuable for all aspects of physics and coursework is therefore recommend for all physics students, but the best specific course, or courses, will depend upon previous experience and interest. Any of the following would be a good choice; students are encouraged to discuss options with their advisor.

• CSCI-A 201  Introduction to Programming I (3-4 cr)
• CSCI-B 100 Problem Solving Using Computers (4 cr.)
• CSCI-C 101 Computer Programming I (4 cr.)

Professional Track

We refer to those who intend to pursue advanced studies in physics (e.g., a masters or PhD degree) as being on the “professional track.” This path provides the most thorough undergraduate training in physics.

Advanced Core

Those on the Professional Track are strongly encouraged to take all four courses in the Advanced Core, as not taking any of them would be a significant deficiency for essentially all physics graduate programs.

Additional Mathematics

Due to the highly mathematical nature of physics, additional math coursework is recommended, although specific choices should be made in close consultation with the student’s advisor based upon research interests and post-graduation plans.

Applied or Pre-Engineering Track

We refer to those interested in transferring to an undergraduate engineering program, seeking immediate employment upon graduation, or pursuing graduate study in an applied field (e.g., geophysics or engineering) as being on the “applied” or “pre-engineering” track. This path encourages greater flexibility in elective options, ideally to facilitate additional coursework in an allied field or in preparation for transfer to an engineering school.

Chemistry

Applied Track students are strongly encouraged to take the following two-semester sequence of chemistry with lab components:

• CHEM-C 105 Principles of Chemistry I
• CHEM-C 106 Principles of Chemistry II
• CHEM-C 125 Experimental Chemistry I (2 cr.)
• CHEM-C 126 Experimental Chemistry II (2 cr.)