Physics, BA

Directors of Undergraduate Studies

Joseph Paulsen and Matthew Rudolph

jdpaulse@syr.edu, msrudolp@syr.edu

201 Physics Building

315-443-3901

Faculty

Marina Artuso, Stefan Ballmer, Steven Blusk, Duncan Brown, Simon Catterall, Eric Coughlin, Walter Freeman, Jay Hubisz, John Laiho, M. Lisa Manning, Alan Middleton, Liviu Movileanu, Alison Patteson, Joseph Paulsen, Ivan Pechenezhskiy, Britton Plourde, Jennifer Ross, Matthew Rudolph, Christian Santangelo, Eric A. Schiff, Jennifer Schwarz, Mirna Mihovilovic Skanata, Tomasz Skwarnicki, Mitchell Soderberg, Paul Souder, Scott Watson, Denver Whittington

Physicists idealize the behavior of matter and energy in terms of mathematical representations called the “fundamental laws of nature” and seek to explain the properties of nuclei, atoms, molecules, and systems of these particles (gases, liquids, crystals, etc.). Undergraduate courses provide a background in classical physics, quantum mechanics, and laboratory techniques.

The department offers coursework leading to either a B.A. or a B.S. degree. The B.A. degree program is an excellent liberal arts major that requires fewer credit hours in the major than the B.S. program. The Physics B.A. provides a flexible and broad education in many topics in physics that prepare students for a diverse array of STEM or STEM-adjacent career options.

Other information about physics be found at physics.syr.edu.

Student Learning Outcomes

A student will be able to explain phenomena occurring from sub-atomic to cosmological distance scales using qualitative physical principles.
A student will be able to apply mathematics and logic to solve problems associated with natural phenomena.
A student will be able to assess and explain arguments for physical laws based on experimental and theoretical evidence.
A student will be able to employ basic laboratory and technical skills to solve physics problems as a result of formal laboratory course work and research opportunities with faculty.

B.A. Degree Requirements

The B.A. degree in physics is an important accomplishment for students considering careers in such widely varying areas as law, journalism, corporate management, and teaching. In all of these fields a liberal education incorporating serious study of a scientific discipline is an asset.

Development of analytical and computational skills through the study of advanced undergraduate physics.
Development of written and verbal communication skills, including the specialized skills required for the communication of technical information.
Development of a broad understanding of the role of science and technology in modern life. The bachelor of arts degree requires completion of at least 30 credits of physics and astronomy courses.

8-10 credits of lower-division courses are required:

PHY 215 - General Physics I for Scientists with
PHY 225 - Experiencing Physics I
PHY 216 - General Physics II for Scientists with
PHY 226 - Experiencing Physics II
Note: Students declaring a Physics B.A. after taking PHY 211, PHY 221, PHY 212, and PHY 222 can petition for these to substitue for PHY 215, PHY 225, PHY 216, and PHY 226.

18 credits of upper-division Physics and Astronomy courses are required, including 7 credits from:

PHY 344 - Experimental Physics I
PHY 361 - Introduction to Modern Physics
The rest of the 11 credits must be from 300+ level PHY courses. Some commonly offered electives include:
PHY 306 - Nuclear Physics in our Lives
PHY 307 - Science and Computers I
PHY 312 - Relativity and Cosmology: Einstein and Beyond
PHY 314 - Quantum Computing Demystified
PHY 315 - Biological and Medical Physics