BA

Physics BA: Theoretical Physics Concentration

Department/Division
School
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

The requirements for the Bachelor of Arts in physics include a core of introductory, intermediate, and advanced courses in physics and the completion of one of five concentrations outlined below. Several related courses in mathematics are also required in preparation for the various core courses. All courses used to complete the major must have grades of "C" or better.

Completing a Concentration 

To ensure maximum flexibility in meeting student goals, five concentrations have been devised, well-suited to the mix of experience available at Alfred University. These concentrations leverage the interconnections between physics, astronomy, and several of our engineering programs. The concentrations are Astrophysics, Mechanical Systems, Solid State Physics, Theoretical Physics, and General Physics

Upon completion of this program a student is able to:

  1. Demonstrate understanding of the conservation rules that govern the universe and how those rules are applied to the various disciplines within physics.
  2. Use mathematical reasoning to apply the laws of physics to a range of physical situations and identify the assumptions made in obtaining a solution.
  3. Ask a testable question and suggest realistic experiments to determine the answer to that question.
  4. Demonstrate familiarity with the physics literature.

Core Requirements for the Major

Introductory and Intermediate Courses:

Course Code
Title
Credits
Sub-Total Credits
20

Upper Level Courses:

Choose 3 of the following 4 courses:

Course Code
Title
Credits
Sub-Total Credits
10-11

Theoretical Physics Concentration

This concentration allows maximum depth in student's physics preparation. Complete at least 8 credits chosen from the following:

Course Code
Title
Credits
Sub-Total Credits
8

Related Courses

The following courses in mathematics fulfill the prerequisites of various courses required in the major. These courses should ideally be completed by the end of the second year.

Course Code
Title
Credits

CLAS General Education Requirements

Complete remaining CLAS General Education requirements.  Physics majors complete 12 credits of quantitative reasoning and natural science requirements as part of their degree program. 

Sub-Total Credits
40

University Requirement

The university requirements must also be fulfilled, and will count towards the minimum credit requirement for this program. These include:

General Electives

Take as many general elective courses as needed to complete a total of 124 credits. 

Total Credits
124