Applied Physics
Degree: B.S., Physics
Department of Chemistry and Physics
The study of physics involves a basis for understanding more deeply all arenas of the physical universe. Because the discipline also provides a framework for problem-solving, studying physics also imports into other fields in/out of STEM disciplines where stubborn problems persist. An understanding of physics also transfers to every technical discipline that involves modern computation and instrumentation. In total, majoring in physics supplies undergraduates with a firm footing to better understand current STEM foundations while also feeding one’s curiosity for solving future unforeseen problems.
The Applied Physics major at UMW is part of a nationally recognized program that emphasizes faculty accessibility and student collaboration. The program is keenly aware of the lack of equitable representation in physics and participates in a national cohort to address historical inequities. The whole program, from students to faculty, elevates awareness for physics education from grades K–12 through informal programming and partnership with UMW’s College of Education. Our graduates have a high success rate of moving forward with their expected plans, which mirrors the national statistics for physics majors. Our faculty are contributing members of science abroad, while also collaborating with student majors. This process begins as early as a student’s first year. UMW physics facilities are among the best, on-campus and beyond. The Margaret Duke (’44) Endowed Fund supports students in all facets of their journey toward aspiring scientists, including a monthly colloquium series that allows students to interact personally with disciplinary experts.
The Applied Physics track is designed for students who have an interest in the experimental and quantitative aspects of physics. This track provides a solid preparation for almost any technical career, including engineering, because it teaches students the origin of many approximations in other disciplines. Students are encouraged to explore other STEM fields including education, leading to a minor or possible double-major. Applied Physics majors work within well-supported laboratory spaces and are prepared for in-demand, diverse STEM careers.
Major Requirements
Code | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
Required courses: | ||
PHYS 105 | University Physics, w/Lab | 4 |
PHYS 106 | University Physics w/Lab | 4 |
PHYS 201 | Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics | 3 |
PHYS 211 | Modern Physics | 3 |
PHYS 283 | Electronics w/Lab | 4 |
PHYS 317 | Methods of Mathematical Physics | 3 |
PHYS 482 | Physics Seminar | 2 |
Major electives: Choose 6-8 credits | 6-8 | |
Nuclear Physics | ||
Optics w/Lab | ||
Astrophysics | ||
Classical Mechanics I w/Lab | ||
Electricity and Magnetism I w/Lab | ||
Advanced Physics Laboratory | ||
Quantum Mechanics I w/Lab | ||
Selected Topics in Physics | ||
Outside the Major Electives: Choose 3 credits | 3 | |
Multivariable Calculus | ||
Differential Equations | ||
Foundations of Advanced Mathematics | ||
Chaotic Dynamical Systems | ||
Introduction to Computer Science | ||
Total Credits | 32-34 |
General Education Requirements
The general education requirements for Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science degrees apply to all students who are seeking to earn an undergraduate B.A., B.S. or B.S.Ed. degree.
Students seeking a Bachelor of Liberal Studies degree have a separate set of BLS general education requirements.
Electives
Elective courses are those that are not needed to fulfill a general education requirement or major program requirement but are chosen by the student to complete the 120 credits required for graduation with a B.A./B.S./B.S.Ed. degree or the BLS degree. These courses may be taken graded or pass/fail (or S/U in the case of physical education and 100-level dance). No student in a regular B.A./B.S./B.S.Ed. program may count more than 60 credits in a single discipline toward the 120 credits required for graduation.
Total Credits Required for the Degree: 120 credits
Chemistry and Physics Department
Janet A. Asper, Chair
Janet A. Asper, Career Advisor
Matthew C. Fleenor, Program Coordinator (Physics)
Faculty
(The person’s subject field is indicated in parentheses.)
Professors
Janet A. Asper (Chemistry)
K. Nicole Crowder (Chemistry)
Matthew C. Fleenor (Physics)
Kelli M. Slunt (Chemistry)
Associate Professors
Leanna C. Giancarlo (Chemistry)
E. Davis Oldham (Chemistry)
Randall D. Reif (Chemistry)
Assistant Professor
Desmond R. Villabla (Physics)
Sarah E. Smith (Chemistry)
Varun Suresh Makhija (Physics)