Mathematics-Physics Major

NSM PEAK

The Mathematics-Physics major provides an excellent basis for many post-college paths, including teaching, engineering, working in industry or tech-related business fields, and graduate study in physics, astronomy, and various fields of engineering. Our majors enjoy a wide variety of after-college options because of the training they undergo to become independent problem solvers who utilize both physics and mathematics and who can effectively communicate their understanding.

Mathematics-Physics majors may not minor in Physical Science. They also may not major or minor in Mathematics.

Major Requirements

41 Credits

Mathematics-Physics Core (15 credits)

The Mathematics and Physical Sciences Core provides a strong mathematical background to all Mathematics and Mathematics-Physics majors in our department. This collection of courses incorporates mathematical methods and concepts and fundamentals of computer programming along with the foundational course in analytical physics as an introduction to problem-solving, abstract analysis, and applications.

CSC-150Comp Sci I: Intro to Comp Sci and Prog

3 credits

MAT-175Single Variable Calculus

4 credits

MAT-275Multivariable Calculus

4 credits

PHY-271Analytical Physics I

3 credits

PHY-271LAnalytical Physics I Lab

1 credit

Depending on placement, completion of MAT-150 may be required prior to enrolling in MAT-175.

Colloquium (1 credit)

Complete two semesters of Colloquium at 0.5 credits per semester.

IND-198Natural Sciences and Mathematics Colloquium

0.5 credits

IND-198Natural Sciences and Mathematics Colloquium

0.5 credits

Preparatory Courses (10 credits)

Complete the following courses to prepare for upper-level physics.

MAT-352Differential Equations

3 credits

PHY-272Analytical Physics II

3 credits

PHY-272LAnalytical Physics II Lab

1 credit

PHY-283Modern Physics

3 credits

Mathematical Proofs Course (Optional)

Students planning to take upper-division mathematics courses other than MAT-352 must complete MAT-285.

MAT-285Introduction to Proof

1 credit

Upper-Level Physics (6 credits)

Complete two of the following.

PHY-301Theoretical Mechanics

3 credits

PHY-313Thermal Physics

3 credits

PHY-330Electricity and Magnetism

3 credits

PHY-400Quantum Physics

3 credits

Upper-Level Mathematics and/or Physics Electives (6 credits)

Complete 6 credits of any additional 300- or 400-level MAT and/or PHY courses (except MAT-352). MAT-352 is a required preparatory course and does not fulfill credits in the elective area.

MAT/PHY-
Elective MAT and/or PHY coursework, 300- or 400 level (except MAT-352)

6 credits

Mathematics-Physics Capstone (3 credits)

PHY-490Mathematics-Physics Capstone

3 credits

Recommended Courses

Students interested in graduate study in physics are strongly encouraged to take the following courses.
PHY-235Electronics

3 credits

PHY-235LElectronics Laboratory

1 credit

MAT-285Introduction to Proof

1 credit

MAT-361Linear Algebra

3 credits

MAT-431Complex Analysis

3 credits

PHY-
All 300- and 400-level PHY Courses

Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this major, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the structure mathematics and physics and the ability to utilize that structure;

2. Demonstrate the ability to integrate mathematical and computer literacy with physics;

3. Employ appropriate mathematical and experimental methods and designs to solve physics and/or mathematics problems;

4. Obtain, assess, interpret, and communicate physical information; and

5. Demonstrate knowledge of contemporary social and ethical issues related to physics and/or mathematics.