BA in Physics

A typical scenario for a physical explanation of a given situation is this: a small collection of basic physical principles relevant to the situation is used to create a mathematical model of it; computations are carried out using the model, leading to predictions that are checked experimentally; if there is agreement, the physical situation is deemed to have been explained. The objective of the program in physics is to make it possible for students to execute such a scenario for a wide range of physical situations. To that end, students are required to attain a firm grasp of the basic principles of classical physics and familiarity with those of quantum physics, to learn how to decide which principles are relevant to a given situation and how to construct the appropriate mathematical model, to develop the mathematical skills necessary to carry out the computations that generate predictions, and to strengthen the experimental skills used in exploring new phenomena and in carrying out the verification step of the typical scenario. Learning Goals The Brandeis physics major offers students a unique opportunity to prepare for graduate school or employment in a variety of technical fields. Our undergraduate program is strongly based on a first-rate research program by our faculty, which gives students the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research in areas including astrophysics and cosmology, biological physics, condensed matter physics, high-energy particle physics, and theoretical physics, and topics such as string theory, liquid crystals, DNA, polymers, elementary particles, distant quasars, and the early universe. Bachelor of Arts degree is intended for students who are not intending to pursue graduate studies in physics. For example, the student might desire to pursue science journalism, the history or philosophy of science, patent law, economics, business, pre-medical studies, or K-12 science education. Thus, the B.A. degree combines a solid grounding in physics combined with a topical focus designed by the student in conjunction with the student's major advisor. There are 12 total courses required for the major: A. PHYS 10a,b, 11a,b or 15a,b (11a,b or 15a,b being strongly recommended). B. PHYS 20a. C. PHYS 31a. D. PHYS 40a. E. PHYS 30a OR PHYS 100a. F. Two semesters of laboratory courses in Physics; a year of PHYS 18a,b or 19a,b counts as one semester towards this requirement. G. One semester of mathematics numbered higher than first-year calculus (MATH 10a b). H. Three additional courses, at least one of which is a physics course numbered higher than 20, designed around some topical focus, chosen in consultation with (and subject to approval by) the student's major advisor. I. No course with a grade of below C- can be used to satisfy the requirements of the major. J. No course taken pass/fail may count toward the major requirements.