Concentrations
Adapting the physics curriculum to students’ goals.
Through the selection of elective courses, Valpo physics majors may concentrate their studies in particular areas of the discipline to accommodate their individual interests and career plans. The following areas of focus have been identified as useful to a significant number of students.
The concentration in fundamental physics is intended for students primarily interested in pursuing a career in physics and who intend to pursue graduate study in physics.
Recommended Coursework
| PHYS 372 | Electromagnetic Waves and Physical Optics | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 381 | Advanced Mechanics | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 421 | Quantum Mechanics I | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 422 | Quantum Mechanics II | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 430 | Nuclear Physics | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 430L | Nuclear Physics Laboratory | 1 credit | |
| PHYS 440 | Condensed Matter Physics | 3 credits | |
Recommended Courses in Other Departments
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The concentration in applied physics is intended for students interested in the application of physics to problems in a business or industrial environment. In addition to the core courses, students are advised to complete the major by electing courses most closely associated with the desired physics application.
The applied physics option is most useful to students who will seek employment immediately after graduation. The department strongly recommends that students participate in the University’s Cooperative Education program to gain practical work experience.
The following four applied physics concentrations are available:
This option is designed for students interested in computer-related applications of physics and computational problem solving. In addition to the major, students are encouraged to complete the computer science minor »
This option is designed for students interested in careers in research and development fields involving electronic devices. In addition to the major, students are encouraged to complete the electronics minor.
Electronics Minor
| PHYS 342 | Electronics | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 372 | Electromagnetic Waves and Physical Optics | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 440 | Condensed Matter Physics | 3 credits | |
7 credits from the following options:
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7 credits | ||
| TOTAL | 16 credits | ||
This option prepares students for management and project leadership in technological and scientific environments in business and industry. In addition to the major, students are encouraged to complete the fundamentals of business minor »
This option is for students interested in careers in research and development fields involving mechanics and materials science. In addition to the major, students are encouraged to complete the courses in the mechanics and materials minor.
Mechanics and Materials Minor
| PHYS 109 | Mechanics — Statics | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 252 | Materials Science | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 440 | Condensed Matter Physics | 3 credits | |
Seven credits from the following options:
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7 credits | ||
| TOTAL | 16 credits | ||