Academic Learning Compact - Physics

The laws of physics are the starting point for most scientific research and engineering applications. Students majoring in physics obtain broad-based knowledge and experience applying these laws as well as hands-on experience building electronic equipment and performing experiments. Many students go on to graduate study in physics, and a considerable number pursue advanced degrees in other science disciplines, all branches of engineering and medical school. Physics majors are employed in industry doing applied work and in academia seeking the answers to fundamental questions.

Additional information is available from your major's website.

Before Graduating You Must

• Pass the UF physics field test, which consists of five parts. One part is given in each of these required courses:
  • PHY 2060 Enriched Physics with Calculus 1 or PHY 3221 Mechanics
  • PHY 3323 Electromagnetism
  • PHY 3513 Thermal Physics
  • PHY 4604 Introductory Quantum Mechanics
  • PHY 4802L Laboratory Physics 1
• Complete requirements for the baccalaureate degree, as determined by faculty.

Skills You Will Acquire in the Major (SLOs)

1. Students identify, define and describe the core fields of physics: classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermal physics and quantum mechanics.
2. Students identify, define and explain experimental physics and data analysis.
3. Students formulate, solve problems and draw conclusions from data.
4. Students effectively and clearly communicate ideas in speech and in writing in an accepted style.

Table Key: I = Introduced; R = Reinforced; A = Assessed

Assessment Types:
Field test, report, presentation.