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.

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• Back to the Lafayette Physics Home Page.
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