Physics B.A./B.S. with Emphasis in Astrophysics

The emphasis in Astrophysics is designed for students interested in pursuing a career and advanced study in astronomy and astrophysics.  The degree program contains a strong core of physics and mathematics courses which provides the desired breadth and academic rigor to prepare the student for entry into any of the many subfields of modern space-related careers (for example, space science and technology, planetary science, astrobiology, etc.). 

Core Curriculum Courses		42
See the Core Curriculum Requirements
Required courses in the major
PHYS 101	Physics and Astronomy Seminar	1
PHYS 2425	University Physics I *
PHYS 2426	University Physics II	4
PHYS 317	Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering	3
PHYS 319	Computational Physics with Python	3
PHYS 321	Modern Physics	3
PHYS 333	Wave Motion, Acoustics, and Optics	4
PHYS 401	Current Topics in Physics and Astronomy	2
PHYS 411	Classical Mechanics	3
PHYS 412	Electricity and Magnetism	3
PHYS 414	Thermodynamics and Kinetic Theory	3
PHYS 420	Quantum Mechanics	3
ASTR 310	Observational Astronomy	4
ASTR 410	Stellar Structure and Evolution	3
ASTR 420	Galaxies and Cosmology	3
PHYS or ASTR or MATH (Advanced)		11
Required Support Courses **
MATH 2413	Calculus I (4 hours) *
MATH 192	Calculus II *
MATH 314	CALCULUS III	4
MATH 315	Differential Equations	3
CHEM 1311	General and Quantitative Chemistry I *
CHEM 1111	General and Quantitative Chemistry Laboratory I *
Second Major or Minor or Electives Required
18-24 semester hours required in second major or minor or electives		18-24
Total Hours		120-126

*	This course should be taken to fulfill Core Curriculum Requirements
**	These courses may apply to the second major or minor

Notes

•  MATH 142  Pre-Calculus is required of all students who do not qualify for advanced standing.
• Suggested second majors include mathematics, chemistry, computer science, and biology. Other choices are possible.
• Planning for a second major should not be delayed beyond the middle of the sophomore year. A minor in a second subject may be chosen instead of a second major. The choice of mathematics as second major allows for four additional courses to be elective. Many students select minors in both mathematics and computer science.