Mathematics-Physics Major

NSM PEAK

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

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 the 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 Applied Calculus 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 Differential Equations must complete MAT-252 Discrete Mathematics.

MAT-252Discrete Mathematics

3 credits

Upper-Division Physics (6 credits)

Complete two courses.

PHY-301Theoretical Mechanics

3 credits

PHY-313Thermal Physics

3 credits

PHY-330Electricity and Magnetism

3 credits

PHY-400Quantum Physics

3 credits

Upper-Division Mathematics and/or Physics Electives (8 credits)

Complete 8 credits of any upper-division (300- or 400-level) MAT or PHY courses (except MAT-352). Additional courses from “Upper-Division Physics” beyond the required 6 credits will count towards the elective requirement. 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)

8 credits

Capstone

MAT-490Math-Physics-CS Capstone

1 credit

Recommended Courses

Students interested in graduate study in physics are strongly encouraged to take the following courses:
MAT-252Discrete Mathematics

3 credits

MAT-361Linear Algebra

3 credits

MAT-431Complex Analysis

3 credits

PHY-235Electronics

3 credits

PHY-235LElectronics Laboratory

1 credit

PHY-
All 300- and 400-level PHY Courses

Outcomes

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

1)  Demonstrate foundational knowledge of mathematics and an understanding of core physical theories;

2)  Demonstrate the ability to integrate mathematical and technological methods with physics;

3)  Employ appropriate mathematical and experimental methods and designs to independently and collaboratively investigate physics problems;

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

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