Department of Physics
Physics Major
Students who complete a major in Physics are prepared for careers in industrial and governmental research and development; for graduate study in physics, astronomy, engineering, medicine, oceanography, materials science; and for environmental science. In-depth preparation also is provided for teaching in secondary schools.
To meet requirements of the “No Child Left Behind” Act 2001, students interested in Physics Education are encouraged to declare a double major in their discipline and in education (i.e., physics education and physics). Such double majors may typically be earned by successful completion of a few additional credits. Students should contact their adviser or the Office of Registration and Records for details and are encouraged to declare their primary and secondary majors with the Office of Registration and Records, Ceres Hall 110.
A grade-point average of 2.00 or higher is required in all Physics courses. Courses do not count toward the major if the grade is below a 'C'.
Computational Physics Option
Computational physics is a rapidly growing sub-discipline of physics, concerned with computational aspects of physical problems, including computer simulation and numerical techniques for the solution of mathematical equations arising in all areas of physics. As computing power grows, computer modeling is becoming an increasingly important research and development tool. Correspondingly, there is a rising demand for scientists with multidisciplinary training that combines fundamental knowledge of physics with practical skills in computation. The computational physics option recognizes the unique qualifications of students who complete computation-related courses in addition to fulfilling the requirements for the physics majors. Graduates of the option will be qualified to work in industry or to pursue graduate studies in physics, computer science, engineering, or other technical fields.
Optical Science and Engineering Option
This option includes an interdisciplinary optics/photonics sequence of courses taught by the Departments of Physics and Electrical and Computer Engineering using a state-of-the-art optics teaching laboratory. This is the only regional program of the type. Optics and lasers are enabling technologies and are applied in most high tech experiments, communications, devices, medical diagnostics, media, etc. There are more than 5,000 optics-related companies in the United Sates alone, but even more important, photonics provides the technical foundation for many more. Optical science and engineering has exploded to encompass nearly all fields of science and technology with a consequent shortage of individuals trained in the field. The optical science and engineering option on your transcript will enhance any job search.
Mathematics and Physics Double Major
This program is for students who want additional theoretical background and preparation for graduate school or technical careers in the sciences.
Physics Minor
A Physics minor consists of 19 credits. At least 8 credits must be taken at NDSU.
