See also Course Offerings
Introductory Sequence
Phys 181: Classical Physics I (Mechanics)
Phys 182: Classical Physics II (Classical Thermal Physics, Electrostatics, Magnetism, Optics)
Phys 281: Modern Physics I (Relativity, Quantum Mechanics)
Phys 282: Modern Physics II (Modern Thermal Physics, Atomic Physics, Nuclear Physics, Solid State Physics)
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Upper Division Courses
Advanced Special Topics
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General Courses of Interest
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Luther graduates with majors
in physics routinely pursue graduate education in engineering, physics, and
astronomy. Other teach high school or find employment in a wide variety of settings.
Luther also supports an active dual degree program in engineering with Washington
University and the University of Minnesota. Students in this program attend
Luther for pre-engineering work and then spend approximately two years at one
of dual degree partner schools, earning one undergraduate degree from Luther
and one from the partner institution. For more information on Luther physics alumni, go to our alumni page.
Required for a major:
The program is determined for each student on an individual basis with the approval
of his or her major adviser from the physics faculty. The major consists of physics 181, 182, 281, 282, 311, 312, and three additional full courses numbered above 300. Two of these additional full courses must be chosen from 361, 364, and 411. In addition, coursework equivalent to math 151, 152, 240, and 351 is required. Students beginning the math sequence above 151 need not receive credit for the courses skipped, only to complete coursework through the math 351 level. Further supporting courses in mathematics, computer science, and other sciences
are desirable.
Each program is designed to meet the needs and special interests of the student, and interdisciplinary study is encouraged in order to obtain a broad base for the major. Programs with emphasis in applied physics, engineering, astrophysics, geophysics, biophysics, energy resources and environmental sciences, history of science, teacher preparation, business-science, and technical writing are indicative of the many broad areas which may be developed for the student.
Students interested in teaching should contact the education department for secondary education program requirements.
Students preparing for graduate study or research in physics and related fields in science and engineering are strongly encouraged to include in their program 238, 352, 354, 369, 401. Supporting courses in mathematics, computer science, and chemistry should also be included in preparation for graduate study.
Required for a minor: Eighteen hours in courses numbered above 150, excluding 185.
Required for a second teaching area: Twenty-four hours in physics courses numbered above 150, excluding 185.