Physics

Physics
Academic Bulletin

(Including Physics and Astronomy Minors)

There are two different sequences of introductory physics, each consisting of two courses.

Suggested Schedules for the Physics Major starting in MATH 140:

OR

Suggestes Schedule for the Physics Major placing in MATH 151:

Suggested Schedule for the Physics Major starting in MATH 152:

Additional Advising Notes:

• A student can still major in physics after taking the Physics 101/102 sequence in place of Physics 110/120. While a student may still complete the Physics Major in four years without taking any physics courses during their first year, scheduling is easier when starting with physics in the first year.
   
• Students considering a cooperative program in engineering should start taking physics in their first or second year.
   
• It is very important that Pre-Health students begin Physics 101 by Spring semester of the second year, so that they can have taken Physics 102 before the MCATs.
   
• Well-prepared students with AP credit in physics (with a grade of 4 or 5) may skip Physics 110 (or 101) but should consider starting with Physics 120 (or 102) in their first year.
   
• Well-prepared students with AP or other college credit in both physics and math should consult with a physics faculty member before registering for physics courses
  .
• Some students may take Math 211 and 280 in place of Mathematical Physics (Physics 272); please consult with physics faculty when considering this option.

Physics Minors:

Students planning on minoring in Physics must take a minimum of 20 credits in the Physics Department, including Physics 110, 120 (or 101, 102) and Physics 210. Four credits must be at the 300 or 400 level. A minimum of 8 credits must be taken at Allegheny.

Astronomy MINORS:

Students planning on minoring in Astronomy must take a minimum of 22 credits.
Requirements: MATH 141 or MATH 151, PHYS 101 or PHYS 110, PHYS 121 (or, with permission of department, PHYS 021), PHYS 320, PHYS 420, and one of the following courses or course sequences: CHEM 120 and CHEM 122, GEO 110, PHIL 230,PHYS or any higher-level Physics course