COMPUTER PHYSICS

Computation has become an integral part of much of modern science. Computers are playing a larger and more important role in almost all aspects of the physical sciences. Not only are they used for taking data and analyzing that same data but modern high power computers can be used to perform experiments that for many reasons may be otherwise unfeasible. Computers are also becoming the standard medium for information storage and retrieval with the advent of scientific bulletin boards, electronic journals, CD-ROM databases and of course the Web. The link between computers and the physical sciences will continue to grow stronger into the foreseeable future. The need for individuals who are interested in a career in the physical sciences to have a strong foundation in computational science is apparent. There is also a parallel need by computer challenged physical scientists for individuals who can bridge both cultures.

The Computer Physics Option is designed to meet the needs of both those individuals who intend to pursue advanced degrees in the physical sciences and also those individuals who wish to enter the job market immediately in a technical position requiring a background in physics and computers. The program here comes close to that required for a minor in Computer 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 Computer Science.

OPTION J: COMPUTER PHYSICS

(This program yields a Bachelor of Science in Physics Degree with a minor in Mathematics and possibly Computer 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.