Physics Major

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Physics encompasses more than the study of matter and energy. It seeks general principles behind phenomena as diverse as wispy elementary particles and gigantic galaxies.

Physics courses provide a pathway towards that understanding through laboratory and computer analysis and mathematical and computer modeling. Our laboratories are especially well equipped and our major emphasizes the development of sound laboratory skills. The major also stresses mathematics, the language of physics.

Physics provides a foundation for students interested in engineering – the application of physical principles to the design of products and processes needed in today’s technological world. Future engineers may concentrate in physics for the first three years at Rollins and then transfer to one of the engineering schools with which the college participates in a 3-2 dual-degree program.

Some graduates teach or work in industry while others pursue masters of business administration degrees (M.B.A.). Many physics majors go on to graduate school in specialized areas of physics, while others continue in such fields as astronomy, oceanography, materials science, and applied physics. Since physics majors know how to solve problems and use technology, they find interesting jobs with or without a higher degree.

Foundational Courses (11 courses)

Electives (3 Courses)

Two (2) of the following electives

Two (2) of the following elective courses:

One (1) of the following

One (1) of the following:

PHY 425 - Computational Physics
PHY 412 - Experimental Optics (Note that to enroll in PHY 412 students must be enrolled in or have successfully completed PHY 411 .)
Students wishing to study physics in graduate school should consider taking all of the above courses.

Note

Students who intend to transfer to an engineering school and complete the 3-2 program with a concentration in physics must complete all of the foundational courses for the physics major except for PHY 496 . Additionally, they must successfully complete PHY 300 , and CHM 120 , CHM 121 .