Physics Program

The Department of Physics and Geology offers the degrees of Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science, Physics, and Bachelor of Arts, Physical Sciences. A student may pursue a physical sciences major by electing one of the following concentrations: applied physics, earth and space sciences, or environmental sciences. A student may also pursue a physical sciences major without a concentration by completing sufficient upper-division units. The Department also offers degree minors in the following areas: physical sciences, physics, and microelectronics .

A concentration in physical sciences and in physics for the Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies is available. Students interested in the single subject credential program in the sciences should see their advisor.

Students interested in graduate work in physics, physical sciences, or astronomy can earn a Master of Arts or Master of Science degree through the special major program. Students interested in graduate work should consult the cataog.

The Minor in Physics

Requirements (18 units)

Complete 18 units in physics as approved by the minor adviser, to include at least eight units in upper-division.

The Minor in Microelectronics

The purpose of this degree minor is to provide students with a theoretical and practical understanding of analog/digital signal processing techniques and microprocessor interfacing techniques, with an emphasis on the design and implementation of instrumentation for scientific experiments.

Requirements (25 units)

1. Complete the following lower-division courses (14 units):

• CS 1500 Computer Programming I, 3 units
• CS 2500 Computer Programming II, 3 units
• CS 2700 Assembly Language & Computer Architecture, 3 units
• PHYS 2260 General Physics II, 4 units
• PHYS 2262 General Physics Laboratory II, 1 unit

2. Complete the following upper-division courses (11 units):

• CS 3740 Computer Organization, 3 units
• PHYS 4250 Analog and Digital Electronics, 4 units
• PHYS 4300 Microprocessor Electronics, 3 units
• PHYS 4302 Microprocessor Laboratory, 1 unit