About the physics major

A major in physics at St. Norbert College requires nine courses in physics plus four in mathematics and one in computer science. Many students who major in physics also complete a major in mathematics. This requires five more courses in mathematics, which can be chosen so they all are important for physics.

In getting a picture of the physics program, it is helpful to consider the courses in four groups:

1. General Physics I, General Physics II and Modern Physics are intended to present fundamental principles over a breadth of topics and to provide experience in using these principles to solve problems.
2. Classical Mechanics, Quantum Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism and Thermal Physics are specialized intermediate courses, each one focusing on the concepts of a particular major area of physics.
3. Calculus I, Calculus II, Calculus III, Differential Equations and Introduction to Computer Programming are intended to develop tools of mathematics that are essential for understanding the fundamental ideas of physics and for using these ideas to do reasoning about physical situations.
4. Circuit Analysis and Modern Electronics are designed to provide basic tools that are essential for developing laboratory skills in modern experimental physics.

Prospective physics majors are encouraged to begin their study of physics and mathematics in the freshman year. Physics majors are required to take the Major Field Test in their senior year as part of an on-going assessment component of the physics program.

Physics

Phone: (920) 403-3219
Fax: (920) 403-4033
E-mail: physics@snc.edu