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Office of the University Registrar

2009-10 Undergraduate Catalog

Academic Learning Compact

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Physics, B.A.
Description of the Major
The laws of physics are the starting point for most scientific research and engineering applications. Students majoring in physics obtain broad-based knowledge and experience applying these laws as well as hands-on experience building electronic equipment and performing experiments. This provides a wide range of career options. Many of our students go on to graduate study in physics, but an equal number pursue advanced degrees in other science disciplines, all branches of engineering and medical school. Physics majors are employed in industry doing applied work and in academia seeking the answers to fundamental questions.

Additional information is available from your major's website.

Before Graduating You Must
  • Pass the University of Florida Physics field test, which consists of five parts. One part is given in each of the following required courses:
    • PHY 2060 Enriched Physics with Calculus 1 or PHY 3221 Mechanics
    • PHY 3323 Electromagnetism
    • PHY 3513 Thermal Physics
    • PHY 4604 Introductory Quantum Mechanics
    • PHY 4802L Laboratory Physics 1
  • Satisfy the Florida statutes for the College-Level Academic Skills Requirement.
  • Complete requirements for the baccalaureate degree, as determined by faculty.
Skills You Will Acquire in the Major (SLOs)
  1. Competence in mechanics, electromagnetism, thermal physics and quantum mechanics.
  2. Knowledge of and competence in experimental physics and data analysis.
  3. Formulate and solve problems in physics in the above areas, and draw conclusions from experimental data.
  4. Effectively and clearly communicate ideas in speech and in writing in an accepted style and presentation.

Courses Content Critical Thinking Communication
SLO 1 SLO 2 SLO 3 SLO 4
PHY 2048 or
PHY 2060		 X   X  
PHY 2049 or
PHY 2061		 X   X  
PHY 2048L X X X X
PHY 2049L X X X X
PHY 3101 or
PHY 3063		 X   X X
PHY 3221 or
PHZ 3113		 X   X X
PHY 3323 X   X X
PHY 3513 X   X X
PHY 4604 X   X X
PHY 4802L X X X X

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