MATERIALS SCIENCE

New materials are impacting almost every aspect of our lives including transportation, electronics, communications, medicine, and consumer goods. Materials breakthroughs have lead to lighter yet more durable aircraft, new methods for dispensing medicines, high-speed electronics, bullet-proof vests, warm but comfortable clothing, high performance athletic and recreational equipment, and many other applications that we take for granted. A degree in Physics with an option in Materials Science will prepare the student for a broad range of careers in which novel materials are applied to making leading-edge technologies possible.

The combination of Materials Science and Physics courses in this option are tailored to build the foundation that will enable the graduate to apply their skills to high tech employment that requires multidisciplinary training. As an example, the optical fiber industry requires an ongoing process of developing new and better materials, the traditional role of a material scientist. Physicists, on the other hand, traditionally study light propagation in fibers. A degree in Physics with the Materials Science Option would provide the general education that would enable the graduate to work at the interface between these disciplines, such as finding new optical devices that take advantage of new materials, or, specifically tailoring materials for a new application. In today’s fast-paced and competitive market, such a broad education with a firm foundation in Physics should give the graduate an edge over those who have a traditional degree in a single discipline. The program here comes close to that required for a minor in Material Science, but the minor will have to be negotiated on an individual basis for each student. The successful conclusion of this program will yield a Bachelor of Science in Physics Degree together with a minor in Mathematics and possibly Material Science.

OPTION F: MATERIALS SCIENCE

(This program yields a Bachelor of Science in Physics Degree with minors in Mathematics and possibly in Material Science)

1: GER = General Education requirements (see the University Bulletin).

2: MATH(3) or (6) = Six hours of MATH beyond 315 are required. Approved choices include MATH 340, 360, 375, 401, 402, 415, 420, 440, 441, 443, 448. Italicized entries are recommended

3: 499 = One hour of 499 in an appropriate department or Physics is required. Additional hours of Physics 499 may be taken for credit.