Bachelor of Science Major in Physics

University of the Pacific

Explore the universe. Start in the lab.Explore the universe through hands-on experiments, cutting-edge labs and faculty-mentored research. At Pacific, you’ll study everything from quantum optics to astrophysics and even use our 2.3-meter radio telescope. Our physics graduates go on to careers in engineering, education, research and beyond. If you're curious, driven and love to ask big questions, this is your launchpad.Hands-on learning facilitiesAt Pacific, you’ll get research experience from day one. Based in Olson Hall, our labs support work in optics, solid-state physics, astronomy and more. You’ll use professional-grade tools and collaborate on faculty research from physics to music.Three-year physics degree optionDo your part to stay on track and you could shave a year off your undergraduate work by completing your physics degree at Pacific in just three years. By taking a focused courseload, you’ll save on tuition and get a head start on launching your career.In addition to the Standard Track for the Bachelor of Science in Physics described above, students may choose a focused concentration for their studies, and follow one of the two concentrations below. These concentrations engage the student further in areas where our department has particular expertise and resources.Astrophysics ConcentrationThrough coursework and projects that uses the department’s astronomical telescopes (optical and radio) and other equipment, students in the Astrophysics Concentration enhance their understanding of the Universe beyond the Earth. Students in this concentration are required to take Astrophysics PHYS 140 and one of Cosmology PHYS 141, Optics PHYS 105, or Special Topics PHYS 093, and their Senior Thesis (PHYS 199) involves either an experimental or theoretical astrophysics project.Theoretical Physics ConcentrationThis concentration is for students who are mathematically inclined or intending to double major with Math, focusing on theoretical aspects of physics, deepening the student's expertise through the application of mathematical methods to study physical phenomena. It is satisfied by any two courses from: Mathematical Physics PHYS 137, Particle Physics PHYS 111, Optics PHYS 105, Cosmology PHYS 141, or Special Topics PHYS 093.OutcomesConceptual and Analytical CapabilitiesMap physical problems into a set of equations and solve them using analytical/numerical methods.Identify the relevant physical principles that govern the dynamics of physical problems and obtain solutions for these problems in the areas of (1) classical mechanics, (2) electromagnetism, (3) statistical mechanics, and (4) quantum mechanics/special relativity.Inquiry and Research CapabilitiesPropose a research project, complete the necessary theoretical background study required for the project, design an experiment or write a computer program for performing necessary calculation/ simulation, and analyze the results to verify/nullify the hypothesis.Communication CapabilitiesMake clear and effective presentations of research projects in both written and oral form.

College of the Pacific