Physics, B.S.

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Minimum number of credits required to graduate: 124

Minimum cumulative GPA required to graduate: 2.0

Minimum number of credits to complete the major: 60

School: School of Arts and Sciences

Department: Physics

Learn more about the program

Major Requirements

Complete the requirements for the major as outlined below.

Mathematics and Computer Science

Complete the following four required courses:

MTH 1217 - Calculus I Credits: 4
MTH 1218 - Calculus II Credits: 4
MTH 2219 - Calculus III Credits: 4
MTH 2220 - Differential Equations Credits: 4
And choose one course from the following:
CSC 1610 - Problem Solving with Java Credits: 4
CSC 1611 - Problem Solving with Python Credits: 4

Physics

Complete the following seven courses:

PHY 2211 - Physics I Credits: 4 (Note: A grade of B- or better is required.)
PHY 2212 - Physics II Credits: 4 (Note: A grade of B- or better is required.)
PHY 2241 - Introduction to Quantum Physics Credits: 4
PHY 3311 - Analytical Mechanics I Credits: 4
PHY 3345 - Electromagnetic Theory I Credits: 4
PHY 4412 - Quantum Mechanics I Credits: 4
PHY 4451 - Advanced Laboratory Credits: 4
And either PHY3304 or the two-course sequence MEN3030 and MEN3032:
PHY 3304 - Thermal Physics Credits: 4
OR
MEN 3030 - Thermodynamics I Credits: 2 AND
MEN 3032 - Thermodynamics II Credits: 2

Additional Physics or STEM Coursework

Choose eight credits of additional Physics or STEM coursework from the following. The Physics Department may approve other courses on a case-by-case basis.

AST 1101 - Introduction to Astronomy Credits: 4
EEN 1200 - Digital Fundamentals Credits: 4
CSC courses numbered 2000 or higher
EEN, GEN, CEN, MEN, CHM, or BIO courses numbered 2000 or higher
MTH courses numbered 2221 or higher
PHY courses numbered 2500 or higher

Interdepartmental Contract Majors

The fundamental nature and quantitative aspects of physics make it a natural framework for constructing a wide range of interdisciplinary “interdepartmental contract majors.” Students interested in this option should discuss the possibilities with a member of the physics department.

Education Certification

The Physics B.A. or B.S. with a double major in Education allows Merrimack students to graduate with initial licensure to teach physics in grades 8-12. Students interested in a teaching career should connect with an advisor from the Department of Education as soon as possible.