Brown University

Source: https://bulletin.brown.edu/the-college/concentrations/phys/ Parent: https://bulletin.brown.edu/the-college/concentrations/

Physics is the scientific study of the fundamental principles governing the behavior of matter and the interaction of matter and energy. Mathematics is used to describe fundamental physical principles, the behavior of matter, and the interactions of matter and energy. As the most fundamental of sciences, physics provides a foundation for other scientific fields as well as the underpinnings of modern technology. The Physics department is unique because of the breadth of its faculty expertise and research, and the relatively intimate size of its classes above the introductory level. Physics concentrators may choose to pursue either the A.B. or the more intensive Sc.B. degree. Course work on either path covers a broad base of topics (for example, electricity and magnetism, classical and quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and statistical mechanics). The Sc.B. degree requires additional advanced topics as well as a senior thesis project.

Standard concentration for the A.B. degree

Standard program for the Sc.B. degree

1 : In addition, courses in computer programming are recommended.

2 : A senior thesis is required. This is to be prepared in connection with PHYS 1990 under the direction of a faculty supervisor. The topic may be in related department or of interdisciplinary nature. In any event, a dissertation must be submitted.

Astrophysics Track for the Sc.B. degree

1 : A senior thesis is required. This is to be prepared in connection with under the direction of a faculty supervisor. The topic may be in a related department or of interdisciplinary nature. In any event, a dissertation must be submitted.

Biological Physics Track for the Sc.B. degree

1 : Select Series A alone or two from Series B as indicated.

2 : A senior thesis is required. This is to be prepared in connection with under the direction of a faculty supervisor. The topic may be in a related department or of interdisciplinary nature. In any event, a dissertation must be submitted.

Mathematical Physics Track for the A.B. degree

1 : Concentrators are required to take at least one course in mathematics and one in physics in each of their last two semesters.

Mathematical Physics Track for the Sc.B. degree

1 : A senior thesis is required. This is to be prepared in connection with under the direction of a faculty supervisor.