Physics
Department: Physics
More Information
Physics is the science that explores all aspects of the complex interactions of matter and energy, from the forces that bind atoms to those that build bridges. Physicists study and develop concepts that are used in a precise mathematical description of nature and construct experiments to test their ideas. Skills cultivated in a study of Physics include critical reasoning, problem-solving, logical thought, and the ability to clearly communication the value of this work to both peers and the public. Physics is at the core of a liberal arts education in a technological society.
The Physics Program of Emphasis is structured to allow a student to prepare for graduate school or to seek immediate employment. The first two years of physics consists of a broad introduction to the field, providing basic knowledge and initial analytical skill development. Some laboratory work is included to insure contact with concrete phenomena, while the mathematics sequence offers the necessary problem-solving techniques and discipline required for the upper-level physics courses at Juniata. At the upper level this program trains students in the fundamentals of experimentation and theory.
The program as stated provides minimal preparation for graduate school and many schools would expect more of their entrants. A person starting early in the field and heading clearly toward graduate school needs to develop a program with greater depth. The Department therefore recommends that a serious student take as large a fraction of the elective courses in physics as possible, and, in addition, acquire research experience.Mathematical preparation
| Course Number | Title | Credits | Prerequisites | Dist. | Skills |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA 130 | Calculus I |
4
|
N
|
QM
|
|
| MA 160 | Linear Algebra |
3
|
N
|
QM
|
|
| MA 230 | Calculus II |
4
|
MA 130 |
N
|
QM
|
| MA 235 | Calculus III |
4
|
MA 230 |
N
|
QM
|
| MA 335 | Differential Equations |
4
|
MA 130, MA 230, MA 235 or MA 233 |
N
|
QM
|
Physics preparation
| Course Number | Title | Credits | Prerequisites | Dist. | Skills |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PC 202 & PC 202L or PC 204 |
Introductory Physics I & Lab University Physics |
4
4 |
Coreq. MA 130 Coreq. MA 130 & PC 189 |
N
N |
QM
QM |
| PC 203 | Introductory Physics II |
3
|
PC 202 & MA 130; coreq. PC 203L |
N
|
QM
|
| PC 203L | Intro Physics Lab II |
1
|
Coreq. PC 203 |
N
|
|
| PC 189* | Physics Seminar I |
1
|
|||
| PC 289* | Physics Seminar II |
1
|
PC 189 |
N
|
|
| PC 300 | Modern Physics Lab |
3
|
MA 230 & PC 203; Coreq. MA 235 |
N
|
CW
|
| PC 301 | Theoretical Modern Physics |
3
|
MA 230 & PC 203; coreq. MA 235 |
N
|
|
| PC 307 | Advanced Physics Laboratory |
3
|
PC 300 |
N
|
CW, QS
|
| PC 340 | Mathematical Methods in Physics |
3
|
PC 203 & MA 230 |
N
|
|
| PC 389* | Physics Seminar III |
1
|
PC 289 |
N
|
|
| PC 402 | Quantum Mechanics |
4
|
MA 235 & either PC 300 or PC 301 or CH 305 |
N
|
|
| PC 410 | Mechanics (with permission may substitute Statics & Dynamics) |
4
|
PC 203 & PC 340 |
N
|
|
| PC 489* | Physics Seminar IV |
1
|
PC 389 | ||
| PC 491 | Electricity & Magnetism |
4
|
PC 203; coreq. PC 340 |
N
|
* In case of course conflicts or study abroad, consult your physics advisor
Elective physics courses
In addition to the required physics and mathematics courses, at least two of the
following must be taken (graduate schools may expect additional courses):
| Course Number | Title | Credits | Prerequisites | Dist. | Skills |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PC 209 | Electronics |
3
|
N
|
||
| PC 239 | Nuclear Threat |
4
|
SO, JR or SR standing |
HN or CA
|
CW
|
| PC 330 | Nuclear Physics |
3
|
PC 300 |
N
|
|
| PC 350 | Thermodynamics |
3
|
PC 300 & MA 235 |
N
|
|
| PC 430 | Optics |
3
|
PC 300 or PC 301 |
N
|
Total credit hours = 60 or 62
updated 3.16