06-07 Undergrad Catalog | Physics and Astronomy

Scott Sommerfeldt, Chair
N-281A ESC, (801) 422-2205

College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences Advisement Center
N-179 ESC, (801) 422-6270

Admission to Degree Program

All degree programs in the Department of Physics and Astronomy are open enrollment. However, special limitations apply for teaching majors.

The Discipline

Over the centuries physicists and astronomers have studied the fundamental principles that govern the structure and dynamics of matter and energy in the physical world, from subatomic particles to the cosmos. Physicists also apply this understanding to the development of new technologies. For example, physicists invented the first lasers and semiconductor electronic devices.

Physics and astronomy students learn to approach complex problems in science and technology from a broad background in mechanics, electricity and magnetism, statistical and thermal physics, quantum mechanics, relativity, and optics. The tools they develop at BYU include problem solving by mathematical and computational modeling, as well as experimental discovery and analysis. All students gain professional experience in a research, capstone, or internship project, usually in close association with faculty. Together these experiences can provide excellent preparation for employment or for graduate studies in physics, other sciences, engineering, medicine, law, or business.

Most physicists and astronomers work in research and development in industrial, government, or university labs to solve new problems in technology and science. They also share the beauty discovered in our physical universe by teaching in high schools, colleges, and universities.

Career Opportunities

A degree in physics and astronomy can provide:

Preparation for those who intend to enter industrial or governmental service as physicists or astronomers.
Education for those who intend to pursue graduate work in physics or astronomy.
Education in the subject matter of physics for prospective teachers of the physical sciences.
Undergraduate education for those who will pursue graduate work in the professions: business (e.g., an MBA), law, medicine, etc.
Fundamental background for other physical sciences and engineering, in preparation for graduate study in these fields.
Physics fundamentals required by the biological science, medical, dental, nursing, and related programs.

Graduation Requirements

To receive a BYU bachelor's degree a student must complete, in addition to all requirements for a specific major, the following university requirements:

The university core, consisting of requirements in general and religious education. (See the University Core section of this catalog for details. For a complete listing of courses that meet university core requirements, see the current class schedule.)
A minimum of 30 credit hours in residence
A minimum of 120 credit hours
A cumulative GPA of at least 2.0

Undergraduate Programs and Degrees

BS	Applied Physics Emphases: Computer Science Selected Options
BS	Physics
BS	Physics-Astronomy
BS	Physics Teaching
Minors	Astronomy Physics Physics Teaching

Students should see their college advisement center for help or information concerning the undergraduate programs.

Graduate Programs and Degrees

MS	Physics
PhD	Physics
PhD	Physics and Astronomy

For more information see the BYU 2006–2007 Graduate Catalog.

General Information

It is recommended that a student complete the following courses in high school:
Students in physics should take mathematics beginning the first semester of the freshman year. Physics majors should ordinarily begin with Math 113. If preparation is inadequate, students might wish to enter the university during the spring or summer term and bring their mathematics preparation to the point where they can take Math 113 concurrently with Phscs 121 during the fall semester.
Students are strongly urged to learn to use a computer, including some knowledge of programming.