Majors, Minors, and Programs

Just an hour from Washington, D.C., UMW is a small school with growing diversity and passionate master teachers. Our liberal arts and sciences curriculum – with more than 60 majors, minors, and courses of study – will challenge your mind and let you explore.

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Physics

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Why don’t riders fall off the roller coaster? When you look in a window, why do you see what’s inside as well as your own reflection? How is music recorded and transmitted? Physics answers these questions and many more. As a UMW physics major, you’ll satisfy your curiosity about the physical universe, then analyze and describe your discoveries. You’ll leave career-ready, prepared for advanced study, and poised to make an immediate contribution to your field.

Degree Awarded

Students majoring in Physics who complete all requirements earn the degree of Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Physics.

Areas of Study

The principles of physics underlie other natural sciences and are essential to many applied sciences and technical programs. UMW’s course offerings include general physics, astronomy, thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, nuclear physics, modern physics, electronics, optics, mathematical physics, mechanics, quantum mechanics, electricity and magnetism, solid state physics, and more.

Career Opportunities

Graduates in physics establish careers as researchers, educators, and engineers in such fields as acoustics, astronomy, astrophysics, atomic physics, biophysics, chemical physics, fluid dynamics, geophysics, low-temperature physics, medical physics, materials science, nuclear physics, optics, particle physics, plasma physics, solid state physics, spectroscopy, and vacuum physics.

Internships

For-credit and paid internships provide opportunities for students to gain field experiences and learn about potential employers. Internship sponsors such as NASA and the Naval Surface Warfare Center work with the department to establish individual objectives. Individual study is another avenue to learn intensively and enhance career skills.

Honors

Besides earning general academic honors, physics majors may earn departmental honors. Your academic advisor can explain requirements and guide you through this process.

Requirements

Major Requirements

The physics major requires 41 credits including core courses, electives, and classes at the 300 level or above.

Minor Requirements

The physics minor requires 24 to 26 credits including core courses, electives, and classes at the 300 level and above.

Scholarships

Physics majors may qualify for valuable scholarships and awards.

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Special Majors

Students also have the option to design a special major that combines courses from two or more academic disciplines into a coherent plan of study. Special majors are developed with a faculty advisor and approved by a curriculum committee. Examples of some of the special majors UMW students have developed are journalism, digital media studies, Italian studies, linguistics, biochemistry, communication, arts management, and Latin American studies.

Honors Program

The undergraduate Honors Program offers advanced students the opportunity to engage in rigorous honors designated coursework, interdisciplinary seminars, strong internship experiences, extended research and creative projects, and community service as part of a supportive community of learners.

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