Applied Physics
Physics is the study of the fundamental laws of nature. Applied physics uses these laws to understand phenomena that may have practical applications. Engineering, in turn, makes use of these phenomena for human purposes, forming a link between the fundamental laws of nature and their applications. Students majoring in Applied Physics take courses in both physics and engineering, as well as courses specifically in applied physics. Students completing the B.S. degree program in Applied Physics are prepared for graduate study in applied physics, in physics, or in engineering, and, with appropriate prerequisites, in medicine; or they may choose careers in a wide range of technical and commercial fields or in areas such as technical writing or patent law that draw on interdisciplinary subjects. Students interested in Applied Physics should start by taking courses in mathematics and, if possible, physics, appropriate to their level of preparation. The recommended mathematics sequence for students interested in Applied Physics is MATH 115a or b, Calculus of Functions of One Variable II; either ENAS 151a, Multivariate Calculus for Engineers, or MATH 120a or b, Calculus of Functions of Several Variables; MATH 222a or b, Linear Algebra with Applications; and ENAS 194a or b, Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations with Applications. Some substitutions are permitted, and are detailed in the YCPS. |
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The math and physics curricula are strongly linked. Students taking MATH 115a or b in the first term of the freshman year should take PHYS 180a, 181b in the first year or PHYS 200a, 201b in the second year. Freshmen starting with ENAS 151a or higher in the first term often choose PHYS 200a, 201b in the first year. All students interested in Applied Physics should take two laboratories, PHYS 205La or Lb and 206La or Lb, Modern Physical Measurement, during the freshman or sophomore year.
Students interested in Applied Physics should also take a course on the use of computers early in their studies. ENAS 130b, Introduction to Computing for Engineers and Scientists, is recommended; a comparable course in computer science may be substituted with the approval of the director of undergraduate studies.
There will be a meeting in the fall for all freshmen interested in the major. Details will be available in the Calendar for the Opening Days. Further details of the program may be found on the Applied Physics Department Web site. The DUS welcomes consultation with students about their programs at any time.
