Physics

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Matthew Enjalran
CHAIRPERSON
Academic Science and Laboratory Building, #108C
(203) 392-7153 - Fax (203) 392-6466
enjalranm1@SouthernCT.edu
Department Secretary: (203) 392-6450

Akbar Bidarian, Professor
Karen Cummings, Professor
James Dolan, Professor
Matthew Enjalran, Professor
Leon Evan Finch, Assistant Professor
Elliott Horch, Professor
Todd Schwendemann, Associate Professor
Binlin Wu, Assistant Professor

MAJOR PROGRAMS IN PHYSICS

The Physics Department offers three Bachelor of Science degree options (general program, engineering concentration and secondary education) as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in physics.

Students in these programs develop a mastery of the important theories, unifying principles, and engineering applications of physics. All students are encouraged to build active curiosity, investigative skills, and intellectual confidence and the ability to think and act independently.

Upper level students typically participate in research with faculty mentors. Projects currently in progress include nano-structured materials, atomic force and electron microscopy, correlated many-body physics, astronomical studies of binary stars, research on the learning and teaching of physics, theoretical condensed matter physics, fluorescence spectroscopy, biophysics, fiber optics, superconductivity, materials engineering, nuclear, and high-energy physics.

Since all 100-level courses are introductory, a student may not receive credit for more than one of PHY 100, 101, 103, and 111.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics - General

The general program emphasizes in depth inquiry into the central principles, analytical techniques, and key applications of physics. The program requirements form the core of the preparation expected for graduate study in fundamental and applied physics, or for initial positions in physics-based careers. Students can prepare for productive industrial and governmental research, development and technical management careers, and for many other science and technology oriented professional opportunities.

Students planning to be professional physicists are encouraged to pursue additional courses, independent study, and research beyond the minimum requirement, in physics, mathematics, and other related fields.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics - Engineering Concentration

The engineering concentration is designed for students whose primary interest is in the applications of physics in engineering and advanced technology. The engineering concentration integrates intensive study of the underlying science with training in the practice of engineering. An engineering education requires a solid scientific foundation based on principles of mathematics and physics. Some of the technological fields that require a strong background in physics include materials science, nanotechnology, telecommunications, digital imaging, renewable energy systems, and microelectronics. The engineering concentration provides the opportunity to prepare for employment or graduate study in any of these critical areas of innovation. There is also an increasing emphasis on connections among scientific and engineering fields and this degree program provides excellent preparation for an interdisciplinary future. The engineering concentration also offers valuable preparation for technology-oriented careers in business management and marketing.

Bachelor of Science in Physics - Secondary Education

The department is actively involved in the preparation of science teachers. Students who successfully receive the B.S. degree and pass Praxis® II will be recommended for Initial Teacher Certification.

The specific professional requirements for Initial Teaching Certification in Connecticut are listed in the secondary education section of the School of Education.

Bachelor of Arts in Physics

This program offers students the greatest flexibility in choosing courses of interest. Imaginative combinations are possible which enable the student to relate the study of physics to wide-ranging areas such as the social sciences and the fine arts as well as the other natural sciences. It also develops advanced skills in quantitative and analytical thinking for a career in business, law, medicine, or other professions. Students may elect to pursue a double major in physics and education.