Current Physics Undergraduate Bulletin
The physics department offers 3 primary degree paths, each of which confers a BS in Physics:
(links are to one-page curricular planner details)
and six degree specializations:
- Astrophysics
- Biomedical Physics
- Chemistry and Physics of Condensed Matter
- Computational Physics
- Geophysics
- Graduate Physics Preparatory
Physics curricular requirements are the same for each degree path; however, the Physics/Secondary Education program and 7-yr BS/MD program include additional prescribed coursework. The following links provide typical four-year schedules for our three degree programs, though students who come in with Advanced Placement credits or who place out of some of the College language requirement will have more flexibility:
- Four-Year Schedule for Most Physics Majors
- Four-Year Schedule for Physics and Secondary Education Majors
- Three-Year Schedule for 7-Year Physics BS/MD Medical Program
The physics major can, by proper choice of electives, prepare for graduate work in physics, astronomy, geophysics, interdisciplinary sciences, engineering, or graduate school in professions such as medicine or law. Students may also choose to work in industry, public service, or teaching. Prospective teachers may to teach various courses ranging from high school physics to science in the junior high and middle schools, depending on the courses elected.
The physics major has been designed to promote thorough preparation in physics and flexibility for students to engage in academic opportunities across campus. Through advisement, physics students are able to avail themselves of 2nd majors, minors, liberal learning concentrations, and study abroad experiences. To optimally prepare for graduate study, students are encouraged to work with their advisors to select additional courses in physics and mathematics beyond the basic major requirements.
One basic set of curricular requirements applies to all TCNJ physics majors:
Physics Major Requirements
- 8 Core Courses
- 4 Physics Options
- 5 Specialization Options
- 1 Capstone Course
Physics students planning to become certified to teach physics in NJ public schools should indicate this preference to the physics department in order to ensure adequate advising through the required school of education courses.
Physics Major Specializations
All physics majors are encouraged to select a pre-designed major specialization from among the following:
- Astrophysics
- Biomedical Physics
- Computational Physics
- Materials Science
- Geophysics
- Pre-Graduate Physics
Students are also welcome to design their own specializations within physics subdisciplines.
Specializations are a coherent set of 7 option courses that are chosen from within the 10 required major option courses. The specifications for the specializations may be found at the TCNJ bulletin.
Physics Minor