Mar 29, 2024  
Loyola Marymount University Bulletin 2021-2022 
    
Loyola Marymount University Bulletin 2021-2022 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Physics, B.S.


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Objectives


The Bachelor of Science in Physics provides a solid foundation in classical, quantum, and relativistic physics. By choosing appropriate physics electives in consultation with her/his faculty advisor, the student can study astrophysics, condensed matter systems, cosmology, particle physics, and space physics. In addition to regular coursework, all Physics majors must complete a senior thesis project as a graduation requirement. This hands-on research experience with Physics faculty exposes students to the type of work encountered in graduate school and industry, and enhances their undergraduate portfolio. Upon graduation, Physics students can pursue advanced studies in a variety of physics-related disciplines, as well as in fields such as teaching, medicine, business management, and law, where physics majors can utilize their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

Major Requirements


Note:


Each course in MATH and PHYS listed above must be passed with a grade of C (2.0) or better.

Upper Division Requirements:


Two upper division physics electives selected from the following:


Note:


To graduate, a student must have at least a 2.0 average in all upper division physics courses.

Learning Outcomes


Physics majors will know:

  1. The concepts of classical physics
  2. The theories of modern physics
  3. The discoveries and questions of contemporary physics

Physics majors will be able to:

  1. Form new inferences about the physical world by carrying out scientific investigations
  2. Solve problems, which includes formulating a strategy, estimating a solution, applying appropriate techniques, and evaluating the result
  3. Design and conduct experiments, and well as analyze and interpret the resulting data
  4. Employ computational methods to perform calculations and model physical systems
  5. Communicate effectively their understanding of core physical principles, the results of experiments, and their analysis of physical problems

Physics majors will value:

  1. Ethical and unbiased actions as cornerstones to the scientific method
  2. The impact of physics on society
  3. The role of elegance and beauty in the scientific process

Physics Curriculum


(124 S.H.)

Freshman Year


Total: 16 semester hours

Spring Semester


Total: 17 semester hours

Sophomore Year


Fall Semester


Total: 16 semester hours

Spring Semester


Total: 16 semester hours

Junior Year


Fall Semester


Total: 16 semester hours

Spring Semester


Total: 16 semester hours

Senior Year


Fall Semester


  • 2 semester hours
  • Upper Division Physics Elective I 4 semester hours
  • University Core 4 semester hours
  • Any Upper Division Elective 4 semester hours
Total: 13 semester hours

Spring Semester


  • 1 semester hours
  • Upper Division Physics Elective 4 semester hours
  • Any Lower or Upper Division Elective 4 semester hours
  • Any Lower or Upper Division Elective 4 semester hours
  • Any Upper Division Elective 4 semester hours
Total: 14 semester hours**

Note:


*Physics majors are required to take a minimum of 32 semester hours to fulfill the University Core. If a student chooses to take one or more core courses that are not 4 semester hours, they may need to take additional core courses to meet the 32 unit requirement. 

**Dean’s List requires a minimum of 14 semester hours

Total: 124 semester hours


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