Physics and Philosophy

Prospective majors in Physics and Philosophy are advised to begin taking the prerequisites during their freshman year, and to take at least two of the required Philosophy courses by the end of their sophomore year. Prerequisites for this major are as follows: mathematics through calculus; any introductory Physics lecture sequence (except PHYS 110a or b), including PHYS 260a, 261b; PHYS 165La, 166Lb or the PHYS 205La or Lb, 206La or Lb laboratory sequence; one introductory Philosophy course.

Beyond the prerequisites, students take seven courses in Physics approved by the director of undergraduate studies and numbered 301 or higher, including (1) PHYS 301a or the equivalent, (2) PHYS 439a or 440b, and (3) PHYS 381La or 382Lb; and six courses in Philosophy or in History of Science, History of Medicine, including PHIL 125a and 126b, one course in logic above the introductory level, and a Philosophy seminar selected with the approval of the directors of undergraduate studies. Seniors must complete one of the following: (1) Physics senior essay; (2) PHYS 471a, 472b; (3) PHIL 490 (senior essay); (4) PHIL 480a or b (tutorial) in an appropriate subject; (5) an appropriate Philosophy seminar with the approval of the director of undergraduate studies in Philosophy.

Consult Sean Barrett (Physics), 36 SPL, 432-3601, sean.barrett@yale.edu, and Michael Weber (Philosophy), 406A C, 432-1679, michael.weber@yale.edu.

REQUIREMENTS OF THE MAJOR

Prerequisites: MATH 120a or b; PHYS 150a, 151b, or 180a, 181b, or 200a, 201b, or 260a, 261b; PHYS 165La, 166Lb, or 205La or Lb, 206La or Lb; 1 course in intro phil

Number of courses: 13 term courses beyond prereqs, not incl senior req

Distribution of courses: 7 Physics courses at level 301 or higher approved by DUS; 6 courses in Philosophy or History of Science, History of Medicine, incl 1 in logic above intro level and a Philosophy sem as specified

Specific courses required: PHYS 301a (or equivalent); 439a or 440b; 381La or 382Lb; PHIL 125a, 126b

Senior requirement: 1 from Physics senior essay, PHYS 471a and 472b, PHIL 490, PHIL 480a or b on appropriate topic, or approved Philosophy sem