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Colby College 2011-2012 Course Catalogue
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PHYSICSIn the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
Physics studies nature and how things work on levels ranging from the smallest subatomic and atomic scales, through intermediate scales describing matter in its various forms, up to the largest astrophysical scales. Physics students acquire skills in mathematical calculation, experimental measurement and instrumentation, theoretical and numerical modeling, scientific writing, and oral presentation. Flexible major and minor programs are designed to fit within a liberal arts education and to provide preparation for careers or advanced training in science, teaching, business, medical professions, and engineering. The department welcomes students from all majors and with diverse backgrounds. Emphasis is placed upon independent work and cooperative research with the faculty in atomic, molecular, and optical physics, condensed-matter physics, theoretical physics, and infrared astronomy. All faculty members have active research programs that thrive on undergraduate contributions. Research projects make use of the department's well-equipped laboratories, computer workstations, and supporting machine, electronic, and technical shops. REQUIREMENTS +Requirements for the Physics MajorPhysics majors have a lot of flexibility in choosing the courses that are most appropriate for them. Students should work closely with their advisors in selecting courses to fulfill the requirements for the major. Not all upper-level elective courses are offered every year. Physics 415, taken in the fall of the senior year, involves completing an independent project, internship, or research in physics or a related field. All students are invited to attend the colloquia presented by faculty, senior students, and visiting scientists; senior physics majors are required to participate by enrolling in Physics 401, 402. The point scale for retention of the major applies to all courses taken that can satisfy the requirements listed below. No requirements for the major may be taken satisfactory/unsatisfactory. Physics majors receive Distinction in the Major upon graduating if they have a grade point average of at least 3.5 in physics and mathematics.Required Physics Courses (unless exempted by advanced placement)
Honors in PhysicsIn the junior year, physics majors may apply for admission to the honors program. A 3.25 grade point average in physics and mathematics courses is normally required. Successful completion of the honors program will result in the degree being awarded “With Honors in Physics.” A thesis completed as part of the Senior Scholars Program may be substituted for the honors thesis.Requirements for the Honors MajorIn addition to fulfilling the requirements for the basic physics major, students must take three additional 300-level or higher physics courses and one additional 200-level or higher mathematics course. In fulfilling these requirements, students must take at least one upper-level experimental course (Astronomy 231, Physics 254, 333, or 334). In their senior year, they must also take Physics 483-484 Independent Honors Project in the place of Physics 415. A written honors thesis is required.Students considering graduate school in physics or astronomy are strongly encouraged to take all of the following courses: Mathematics 253, 262, 311, 352, Physics 254, 311, 321, 332, and 431. Requirements for the Minor in PhysicsPhysics 141 (or 143), 145, 241, 242 (or a physics course numbered 300 or above), Mathematics 121 (or 161), 122 (or 162).Effective for the Class of 2012, no requirements for the physics minor may be taken satisfactory/unsatisfactory. Colby College reserves the right in its sole judgement to make changes of any nature in its program, calendar, academic schedule, fees, deposits, or any other matters in this catalogue. |
