Physics Major (B.S.)

Program Overview

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The Bachelor of Science in Physics at the University of New Hampshire provides a comprehensive foundation in physics, emphasizing problem-solving, experimental skills, and communication abilities. The program prepares students for careers as physicists, researchers, engineers, and professionals in various industries, or for graduate studies in physics and related fields. Through a combination of core courses, electives, and a capstone experience, students develop a deep understanding of physics and its applications.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Bachelor of Science degree in Physics at the University of New Hampshire (UNH) is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in physics for professional work as physicists or as a stepping stone for graduate studies in physics, astronomy, or related fields. It also serves as excellent preparation for careers in medicine, law, engineering, or technical roles in various industries. The coursework emphasizes the fundamental concepts of physics, including mechanics, electricity and magnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics.

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Objectives:

The program aims to provide students with:

• A comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of physics
• Proficiency in problem-solving using physics and mathematics
• Skills in experimental physics, including measurement techniques and data analysis
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities
• Excellent communication skills for effectively presenting scientific ideas in written and oral formats
• Preparation for graduate study or a wide range of careers in physics and related fields

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Outline:

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Course Schedule:

The program typically spans four years and involves a combination of core courses, elective courses, and a capstone experience.

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Individual Modules with Descriptions:

• Core Courses:
• Physics Seminar I (PHYS 400):
Introduction to research methods and scientific writing in physics.
• General Physics I (PHYS 407): Mechanics and thermodynamics.
• General Physics II (PHYS 408): Electricity and magnetism.
• General Physics III and Laboratory (PHYS 505/506): Waves, optics, and atomic physics.
• Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics (PHYS 508): Laws of thermodynamics and statistical physics.
• Computational Physics Recitation I and II (PHYS 601/602): Numerical methods for solving physics problems.
• Experimental Physics I (PHYS 605): Experiments in mechanics, thermodynamics, and optics.
• Classical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics I (PHYS 615): Newtonian mechanics and special relativity.
• Classical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics II (PHYS 616): Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics, chaos, and nonlinear dynamics.
• Quantum Mechanics I (PHYS 701): Principles of quantum mechanics and applications to atomic and molecular physics.
• Quantum Mechanics II (PHYS 702): Advanced quantum mechanics, including spectroscopy, scattering theory, and quantum field theory.
• Electricity and Magnetism I (PHYS 703): Electrostatics, magnetostatics, and Maxwell's equations.
• Electricity and Magnetism II (PHYS 704): Electromagnetic waves, waveguides, and antennas.
• Experimental Physics II (PHYS 705): Experiments in electricity, magnetism, and optics.
• Elective Courses:
• Students can choose from a range of elective courses in physics, such as:
• Optics (PHYS 708)
• Astrophysics I (PHYS 710)
• Space Plasma Physics (PHYS 712)
• Condensed Matter Physics (PHYS 718)
• Nuclear Physics (PHYS 720)
• General Relativity and Cosmology (PHYS 764)
• Capstone Experience:
• Students are required to complete a capstone experience during their senior year, which may involve:
• Independent Study (PHYS 795):
Conducting original research under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
• Thesis (PHYS 799): Writing a thesis based on original research.
• Advanced Research Experience (INCO 790): Participating in an advanced research project in collaboration with a faculty member.
• Senior Project (PHYS 798): Completing a special project as part of Senior Lab (PHYS 705).

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Assessment:

The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Exams (midterms and finals)
• Quizzes
• Homework assignments
• Lab reports
• Projects
• Presentations
• Research projects (for capstone experience)

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The program employs a combination of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Tutorials
• Recitations
• Labs

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Faculty:

The program is taught by a team of highly qualified and experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research.

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Unique Approaches:

The program offers the following unique approaches to enhance student learning:

• Computational Physics Recitation Courses (PHYS 601/602): Provide hands-on experience in using numerical methods to solve physics problems.
• Capstone Experience: Allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world research or project-based learning.
• Emphasis on Communication Skills: Students are encouraged to develop strong communication abilities through written reports, presentations, and participation in seminars.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the Physics program at UNH are well-prepared for a wide range of careers, including:

• Physicist
• Research Scientist
• Engineer
• Teacher
• Data Analyst
• Software Developer
• Technical Writer

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Career Opportunities:

Graduates may find employment in various sectors, such as:

• Academia
• National Laboratories
• Industry
• Government
• Non-profit organizations

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Outcomes:

The program has a strong track record of preparing students for successful careers in physics and related fields. Graduates have gone on to pursue advanced degrees, work in research and development, or secure positions in industries ranging from technology to finance.