Jun 24, 2025  
2025-2026 UNDERGRADUATE CATALOG 
    
2025-2026 UNDERGRADUATE CATALOG

Physics - Astronomy Concentration (B.S.)


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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 Astronomy concentration is designed for students interested in acquiring knowledge and pursuing a graduate degree in astronomy and astrophysics. It provides rigorous theoretical and computational training on topics such as planets, stars, galaxies, exoplanets, black holes, cosmology, and astrobiology.

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


Electives


Electives must be chosen to bring the total number of hours to 120. Must be upper division Physics courses. 

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.

Physics Astronomy Concentration 4 year Plan


Freshman Year


Sophomore Year


First Semester


Second Semester


Junior Year


First Semester


Second Semester


Senior Year


First Semester


Second Semester


Total Hours: 120


Notes:


*Must satisfy University General Education Program Requirements.

**Courses offered only online or both online and on-ground

UD: Upper Division

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