two students conducting an experiment in a lab with string and a protractor

Course Requirements


The following represents one of many paths students can take to complete a major in physics.

Note that students typically take four courses per semester for a total of eight each year. Check the Coe catalog to review all of your options.

First Year

  • PHY-215/ -210 General Physics I & Laboratory
  • PHY-225/ -220 General Physics II & Laboratory
  • MTH-135 Calculus I
  • MTH-145 Calculus II

Second Year

  • CS-125 Computer Science I
  • MTH-255 Calculus III
  • PHY-235/ -230 Modern Physics & Laboratory

Third Year

  • PHY-315 Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
  • PHY-325/-320 Digital Electronics & Laboratory
  • PHY-465 Mechanics Formulations

Fourth Year

  • PHY-515 Optics
  • PHY-415 Electromagnetism
  • PHY-535 Advanced Laboratory I  

Comprehensive evaluation Satisfactory completion of written and oral examinations during the junior or senior year.