Earth Science Track

The Earth Science Physics track provides an opportunity for students to develop broad based knowledge in physics as as Earth and planetary sciences. In addition to required core courses, students have the flexibility to select from a group of physics and science options to complete their degree. Graduates can find career placements in industrial or national laboratories, environmental or geotechnical fields, or enter into graduate programs in the geosciences.

---

Recommended Course Sequence

Freshman Year

• PHY 099 - Orientation to Physics
• PHY 201, 202 - General Physics I & II
• CSC 215 - Computer Science I (Sci/Eng), or CSC 220 - Computational Problem Solving
• MAT 127, 128 - Calculus A & B
• First Year Seminar
• Academic Writing (if required)
• Elective

Sophomore Year

• PHY 321 - Modern Physics
• PHY 311 - Analog and Digital Electronics
• PHY 161 - Introduction to Astronomy
• CHE 201, 202 - General Chemistry I & II
• Liberal Learning (3)

Junior/Senior Year

• PHY 171 - Introduction to Meteorology
• PHY 120 - Introduction to Geology
• PHY 220 - Advanced Geology
• Physics Options (3) (includes capstone course: PHY 451or 493)
• Science Options (2)
• Foreign Language (3)
• Liberal Learning (2)
• Electives (3)

---

Physics Options

• PHY 306 - Mathematical Physics
• PHY 316 - Intro. to Biomedical Physics
• PHY 401 - Classical Mechanics
• PHY 411 - Optics and Wave Motion
• PHY 413 - Intro. to General Relativity
• PHY 416 - Thermodynamics
• PHY 421 - Electromagnetic Theory I
• PHY 422 - Electromagnetic Theory II
• PHY 426 - Particle and Nuclear Physics
• PHY 431 - Intro. to Quantum Mechanics
• PHY 436 - Research in Condensed Matter
• PHY 451 - Advanced Laboratory
• PHY 466 - Astrophysics
• PHY 493 - Independent Research

---

Science Options (includes all Physics Options)

• BIO 185 Themes in Biology
• CHE 321/322 Organic Chemistry I & II
• CHE 340 History of Chemistry and Physics

*Students exempted from language and writing requirements may take additional physics options or electives.