M University of Minnesota
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CONTACT INFORMATION
School of Physics & Astronomy
116 Church Street S.E.
Minneapolis, MN, 55455
Phone: 612-624-7375
Fax: 612-624-4578
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Core Program for All Physics Majors

All of our different degree tracks start with a common foundation in physics and mathematics. This basic core of physics and math, taken during the first two years, provides the necessary tools to move into one of the areas of emphasis within physics. Students are also required to take free electives (described at the bottom of this page) and technical electives, depending on their program choice. A technical elective is any course in IT or CBS at the 3xxx level and above. The 1xxx level Csci programming courses in java and C++ are also accepted.

Course Work

The freshman and sophomore years give students a broad introduction to the fundamental ideas of physics together with hands-on laboratory work that illustrates and reinforces these concepts. During this same period students learn the mathematical techniques that they will need for advanced work in physics and other sciences.

Freshman and Sophomore Year Physics Requirements (21 cr) Credits
Phys 1301-1302 I II and 2503. Introductory Physics. 2503 fall only.
or Phys 1401-1402-2403. Honors Physics 		12
Phys 2201.Introductory Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics 4
Phys 2601. Quantum Physics. Spring only. 4

Phys 2605. Quantum Physics Laboratory. Spring only.

 3
Mathematics Requirements (15-16)

Math 1271-1272-2243-2263. Calculus I, II, Linear Algebra and Differential Equations, Multivariable Calculus
or Math 1371-1372-2373-2374. Calculus: Concepts, Explorations, and Applications I, II, III, IV
or Math 1571-1572-2573. Honors Calculus I, II, III

15-16

The total junior and senior years' coursework will vary by degree emphasis, but has a common structure. Each student in the upper division takes at least two of four advanced core physics courses and a year of experimental physics. This experimental course provides a strong grounding in modern electronics and computers, as well as the opportunity to work on independent projects.
Common Junior and Senior Year Physics Requirements (17-18 cr)
Phys 4051-4052. Experimental Methods of Physics 10
Two courses chosen from the following:
  • Phys 4001. Analytical Mechanics
  • Phys 4002. Electricity and Magnetism
  • Phys 4101. Quantum Mechanics
  • Phys 4201. Statistical and Thermal Physics
(7-8)
4
4
4
3
Additional Programmatic Requirements Depending on Emphasis 30-38
These requirements relate to the four different degree emphases and are subject to departmental review and approval for each student.
Liberal Education Requirements
Required for all students at the University
Biology 4
Social Science and Humanities 15 (Minimum)
Designated Themes
English Composition (if needed)
Free Electives (depending on choices above) 6-14