2016-2017 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Oct 31, 2024  
2016-2017 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Physics (B.S.)


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Program Coordinator/Contact
Joel Rauber, Department Head
Department of Physics
Daktronics Engineering Hall 255
605-688-5428
E-mail: joel.rauber@sdstate.edu
www.sdstate.edu/phys
Click here for additional information.  

Program Information
Physics is the foundation of almost all of the science and engineering disciplines. The curriculum in Physics has the flexibility to accommodate a wide range of student interests including engineering, physical science, mathematics, biological science, or health sciences. Graduates find careers in physics research, education, engineering, medicine, nuclear medicine, law, science journalism or alternatively many other choices.

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon the completion of the Physics major, students will:

  • be prepared for either productive employment following graduation or able to pursue advanced degrees in physics or physics related disciplines.
  • compare favorably in the theoretical and technical knowledge with students completing similar programs nationally.
  • have developed a basic understanding of the theoretical and mathematical underpinnings of the discipline.
  • have learned the crucial elements of experimentation including experiment design, equipment building and operation, data collection, data and uncertainty analysis, and results interpretation and dissemination.
  • know how to apply technical knowledge and use appropriate scientific tools to solve problems as both individuals and as team members.
  • have a basic understanding of contemporary issues and professional/ethical responsibilities within a local and global context.

Academic Requirements
The program requires a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or above for all physics courses and a GPA 2.0 or above in PHYS 211-213 (or PHYS 111-113) and PHYS 331.

Course Delivery Format
Physics students learn through hands-on and face to face learning in lecture, laboratory, and field based experiences.

Requirements for Physics Major: 120 Credits


Bachelor of Science in Arts and Sciences 

System General Education Requirements


Institutional Graduation Requirements


College of Arts and Sciences Requirements


Bachelor of Science Requirements: 10+
  • Natural Sciences  Credits: 10+
    • Any two lab sciences.
    • Coursework must include 2 prefixes.
    • MATH and STATS courses do not count toward the science requirement.
  • One declared minor outside of the major prefix OR a second major OR a teaching specialization. The minor may be a traditional minor within one department or it may be interdisciplinary involving more than one department. The minor can be in a different college. The minor must be declared no later than the student’s third semester of enrollment.
  • Capstone course in the major discipline
  • Upper division coursework Credits: 33

SGRs, IGRs, and/or Major coursework may satisfy some or all of the above requirements. Consult program advisor for details. See the College of Arts and Sciences for additional information about Bachelor of Arts specifications.

Major Electives


Select one elective group based on career objectives.  Credits: 35

Group 1: Professional and Applied Physics


Group 3: Flexible Emphasis


Total Required Credits: 120


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