DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS
Physics seeks to understand the physical world by formulating general concepts and principles which organize and interrelate a vast range of seemingly unconnected natural phenomena. Energy and space-time exemplify such concepts, while the laws of thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and electromagnetism exemplify principles of tremendous explanatory power. The Physics Department, through its programs of experimental and theoretical research, enlarges the understanding of various phenomena in quantum electronics, laser optics, photonics, condensed matter, semiconductor materials and devices, electronic properties of new materials, low-temperature physics, nuclear and inner-atomic spectroscopy, elementary particles, biophysics, medical imaging, and statistical and nonlinear physics. Its teaching program involves students in theoretical and laboratory work so that they may better comprehend the nature of physical laws and their applications.
Courses for Non-Science Majors
Courses numbered between 121 and 140 are intended primarily for non-science students. They emphasize general ideas rather than technical details and are taught with minimal reliance on mathematics. The first semesters of these courses have no prerequisites and are open to all students. They satisfy distribution requirements in the area of natural sciences and carry three credits.
Introductory Physics Courses
PHYSIC 107-108 is a course intended primarily for students majoring in biological or behavioral science. Familiarity with college level mathematics (algebra and trigonometry) is necessary. PHYSIC 113-114 is a calculus-level introductory course intended for students in computer science, mathematics, the physical sciences, and pre-engineering. The introductory lab courses, PHYSIC 181 and 182, are appropriate to accompany either the calculus or the non-calculus introductory courses. PHYSIC 211 completes the introductory sequence of calculus-level courses.
The Major
Students interested in physics should seek individual advice and guidance from the Physics Department at their earliest opportunity.
Whenever possible, physics majors should begin their work in both physics and mathematics in the freshman year by enrolling
in PHYSIC 113, 114, 181, 182, and Calculus. Students who are interested in physical science or engineering, but who are not ready to move into PHYSIC 113-114, should seek advice from the department about an alternative course sequence before starting introductory physics. Note: Students may not receive credit for both PHYSIC 107-108 and 113-114.
Students may satisfy the capstone requirement in physics or engineering physics by successfully completing one of the following: Honors in Physics; PHYSIC 479 or 480; PHYSIC 487, or ENRPHY 481-482.
Requirements for Graduation with BA in Physics
Majors must earn a minimum of 34 credits in physics courses including PHYSIC 113, 114, 181, 182, 211, 214, 281, 312, 321, either 382 or 391 (or ENGIN 365), and two physics electives at the level of 300 or higher. Physics majors also must complete MATH 240 and 310. A physics major may complete up to two courses in mathematics or cognate sciences at the advanced level in lieu of advanced physics electives, but prior approval of the department at least one semester before his or her expected graduation is required. Completion of the BA in physics fulfills the field of knowledge requirement for eligibility to apply for certification from the Massachusetts State Department of Education. For further information, see the “Teacher Education” section of this publication.
Requirements for Graduation with BS in Physics
Majors must earn a minimum of 40 credits in physics courses including PHYSIC 113, 114, 181, 182, 211, 214, 281, 312, 321, either 382 or 391 (or ENGIN 365), either 322 or 392 (or ENGIN 241), 421, and two physics electives at the level of 300 or higher. In addition majors must complete CHEM 103-104, MATH 240 and 310, and CS 110 or an approved substitute. (Students with proficiency in computer programming may request from the department a waiver of the CS 110 requirement.)
Students should note that the university requires for a BS degree six mathematics or science courses outside of the student’s major field. Most physics majors (especially those planning graduate work and/or professional careers in physical science) will want to take more physics and mathematics courses than the minimum required for graduation. Additional courses recommended for students planning to pursue graduate studies are PHYSIC 322, 350 and 422, and two or more semesters of mathematics courses such as MATH 350 and 354. All majors are encouraged to gain facility in computer programming.
Requirements for Graduation with BS in Engineering Physics
This major combines the first two years of a standard engineering curriculum, the requirements for the BS in physics, and advanced work in engineering and applied science. For a detailed description, see the “Engineering Physics” section of this publication.
The Minor
Students majoring in another field in the College of Liberal Arts, the College of Science and Mathematics, or the College of Management may minor in physics. Requirements for a physics minor include
- five introductory courses: PHYSIC 113, 114, 181, 182, and 211. Please note that MATH 140 and 141 are prerequisites for these courses.
- three intermediate to advanced level physics courses, of which at least two must be at the 300 level or higher.
Honors
Students wishing to graduate with departmental honors in physics must
- complete satisfactorily 6 credits of supervised research and be nominated for honors by the supervising faculty member;
- have a 3.0 cumulative average in physics courses; and
- have written a thesis and given an oral presentation of their research project. The physics faculty must approve the awarding of honors for this work.
Transfer Credit Policy
At least half the courses required for the major must be taken at the University of Massachusetts Boston. This requirement may be waived in exceptional circumstances upon recommendation by the Physics Department.