Oct 04, 2024  
UofM 2021-2022 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
UofM 2021-2022 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Physics - General Physics Concentration, (B.S.)


The objectives of the BS in Physics program are to (a) acquire knowledge of core principles in physics, (b) be able to justify and explain specific approaches to solving problems, (c) develop an understanding of research methodology in physics, (d) be able to effectively communicate scientific results in both oral and written reports, (e) develop computational skills both in programming and data analysis, (f) be able to use specialized research equipment, (g) be able to collaborate with other students inside and outside the laboratory and during problem-solving sessions, and (h) apply knowledge to execute independent research projects.

The program is tailored to provide fundamental knowledge in physics and skills necessary for students to succeed in physics or closely-related graduate programs, professional programs, or in a wide range of careers.

University General Education Program (41 hours)


See Graduation from the University  for the University General Education Program requirements. Note the following requirements specified for the Physics major:

Mathematics


The Major (71 hours in addition to University General Education Program)


Major Core (47 hours)

General Physics (24 hours):


Electives


Electives must be chosen to bring the total number of hours to 120.

Honors Program


This program is open to physics majors who maintain an inclusive grade point average of at least 3.25, a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.25 in the major, have achieved junior standing, and have completed PHYS 3010   Students admitted to the honors program must complete 8 hours of upper-division physics honors courses: (1) PHYS 4991 /PHYS 4992  Honors Research in Physics, where the student will conduct original scholarly work under the direction of an honors research advisor; (2) PHYS 4999  Senior Honors Thesis, where the student will write a thesis based upon background reading and the experimental research completed in PHYS 4991 /PHYS 4992 ; (3) PHYS 4911  Senior Honors Seminar, where the student will give a presentation based on the work completed in PHYS 4991 /PHYS 4992 .

Those students who complete the physics honors program and the regular college requirements will be recognized at the commencement ceremony by having their degree conferred “With Honors in Physics.” Moreover, the student’s diploma and record at the University of Memphis will reflect this distinction.

Typical 4-Year Physics Sequence General Physics Concentration


Freshman Year


Semester Totals 30 hrs


Sophomore Year


Semester Totals 30 hrs


Junior Year


Semester Totals 30 hrs


Senior Year


Semester Totals 30 hrs


Total Hours: 120


Total Hours Required for Graduation: 120


*Must satisfy University General Education Program Requirement