Lafayette Physics Typical Course Patterns

Shown below are some typical course patterns for fulfilling the physics degree requirements. Depending on your interests and background, however, there may be other possibilities or options available. Please consult with any physics faculty members about the opportunities available to you.

Entering as an A.B. Physics Major

Entering as a B.S. Physics Major

Starting Spring of First Year

Students completing the A.B. degree must also complete 2 other courses in introductory science: Chem(121, 122,125, 212, 323), Biol(101,102), or Geol (100, 110, 120, 130), as well as all courses required for the Common Course of Study.

Entering as an A.B. Physics Major

Year Fall Spring
1st Phys 131 Phys 133
Math 161 Math 162
FYS Eng. 110
Intro Science Intro Science
2nd Phys 215 Phys 216
Phys 132 Phys 218
Math 263 Math 264
  VAST
3rd Phys 351 Phys 3xx
   
   
   
4th Phys 3xx Phys 3xx
   
   
   

Students completing the B.S. degree must also complete 3 Soc/Hum courses and 2 other courses in introductory science: Chem(121, 122,125, 212, 323), Biol(101,102), or Geol (100, 110, 120, 130).


Entering as a B.S. Physics Major

Year Fall Spring
1st Phys 131 Phys 133
Math 161 Math 162
FYS Eng. 110
Intro Science Intro Science
2nd Phys 215 Phys 216
Phys 132 Phys 218
Math 263 Math 264
  VAST
3rd Phys 351 Phys 327
Phys 3xx Phys 3xx
Math 3xx  
   
4th Phys 3xx Phys 4xx
Phys 4xx  
   
   

Students completing the B.S. degree must also take 3 Soc/Hum course and 2 other courses in introductory science: Chem(121, 122,125, 212, 323), Biol(101,102), or Geol (100, 110, 120, 130).


Starting Spring of First Year

Important note: Students with advanced placement credit for Phys 131 can simply start with Phys 133 and then follow the pattern for those entering as B.S. physics major.

All students considering starting a physics major in the Spring of their first year are strongly encouraged to consult with any of the physics faculty about possible course programs. The exact order of courses, particularly Phys 216 and 218, will depend on your background and interests.

Year Fall Spring
1st   Phys 131
Math 161 Math 162
FYS Eng. 110
Intro Science Intro Science
2nd Phys 132 Phys 133
Phys 215 Phys 218
Math 263 Math 264
  VAST
3rd Phys 342 Phys 216
Math 3xx Phys 327
   
   
4th Phys 351 Phys 4xx
Phys 3xx Phys 3xx
Phys 3xx  
   


This page is maintained by Andy Dougherty