Physics Syllabus

A comprehensive guide to physics education from fundamentals to advanced concepts. Follow this structured path to master the principles that govern our universe.

First Year - Foundation

Fall Semester

  • Solid State Physics
    PHYS 401
    Crystal structure, electronic properties, semiconductors, superconductivity
  • Nuclear Physics
    PHYS 402
    Nuclear structure, radioactive decay, nuclear reactions, fission and fusion
  • Particle Physics
    PHYS 403
    Standard model, elementary particles, accelerators, detector physics

Spring Semester

  • Astrophysics
    PHYS 404
    Stellar evolution, galaxies, cosmology, black holes, dark matter
  • Advanced Laboratory
    PHYS 410
    Independent research projects, advanced experimental techniques
  • Senior Thesis
    PHYS 499
    Original research project under faculty supervision

Prerequisites and Requirements

Mathematics Foundation

Strong background in calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, and complex analysis is essential for success in physics.

Laboratory Skills

Hands-on experience with measurement techniques, data analysis, and scientific instrumentation is crucial.

Programming Knowledge

Familiarity with Python, MATLAB, or similar computational tools for modeling and simulation.

Research Experience

Participation in undergraduate research projects enhances understanding and career preparation.

Study Tips and Strategies

Problem-Solving Practice

Work through numerous problems daily. Physics is best learned through consistent practice and application of concepts.

Conceptual Understanding

Focus on understanding the physical meaning behind equations rather than just memorizing formulas.

Mathematical Preparation

Stay ahead in mathematics courses as they provide the essential tools for advanced physics concepts.

Laboratory Engagement

Take lab courses seriously - they bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications.

Study Groups

Form study groups with classmates to discuss problems and explain concepts to each other.

Office Hours

Regularly attend professor and TA office hours to clarify doubts and deepen understanding.

Spring Semester

Second Year - Core Physics

Fall Semester

  • Electricity and Magnetism II
    PHYS 201
    Magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction, AC circuits, Maxwell's equations
  • Thermodynamics
    PHYS 202
    Laws of thermodynamics, heat engines, entropy, statistical mechanics basics
  • Mathematical Methods II
    MATH 201
    Partial differential equations, Fourier analysis, complex analysis

Spring Semester

  • Wave Physics and Optics
    PHYS 203
    Wave equation, interference, diffraction, polarization, geometric and physical optics
  • Modern Physics
    PHYS 204
    Special relativity, photoelectric effect, atomic structure, radioactivity
  • Physics Laboratory II
    PHYS 210
    Advanced experiments in mechanics, electromagnetism, and optics

Third Year - Advanced Topics

Fall Semester

  • Quantum Mechanics I
    PHYS 301
    Schrödinger equation, wave functions, operators, hydrogen atom
  • Classical Mechanics III
    PHYS 302
    Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics, central forces, rigid body motion
  • Statistical Mechanics
    PHYS 303
    Kinetic theory, Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution, partition functions

Spring Semester

  • Quantum Mechanics II
    PHYS 304
    Angular momentum, spin, perturbation theory, many-electron atoms
  • Electromagnetic Theory
    PHYS 305
    Maxwell's equations, electromagnetic waves, radiation, relativistic electrodynamics
  • Physics Laboratory III
    PHYS 310
    Modern physics experiments, quantum effects, advanced instrumentation

Fourth Year - Specialization

Fall Semester

  • Rest for the next bro