Theoretical Physics Facilities
All physics majors receive a rigorous education in fundamental physical theories both through course work and through independent study projects. Following introductory physics courses at freshman and sophomore levels physics majors continue with their work to attain a high level of mastery of classical theories (including classical mechanics, classical electrodynamics, optics, thermodynamics) and also quantum theories of atomic and nuclear physics. This work is carried out during student's junior and senior years in classes of small size where interaction between teacher and student is very close and friendly. Students are also encouraged to take other elective courses in physics (such as solid state theory, statistical mechanics) and/or in mathematics (such as linear algebra, probability theory etc.).
In addition, physics majors who have attained a high level of mathematical/computational skills are encouraged to pursue an independent study project of a theoretical nature. Student research projects could involve a topic of student's own choice or a topic suggested by a faculty member. Students may participate in ongoing theoretical research in elementary particle physics, quantum field theory and astrophysics under the direction of Profs. R.Konoplich, G.Dorata and K.Lee. Computer services are readily available within the physics department to students both for their course work or for individual projects. Theoretical work can also be carried out in conjunction with an experimental project the student may perform either in the optics laboratory under the guidance of Prof. B.Liby or in the modern physics laboratory under the guidance of Prof. L.Uffer.
In the past, students who have excelled in the kind of work described above have also excelled at the graduate level in physics.
Page last updated June 2008
