Physics Major

Major in Physics

The major in physics consists of a minimum of 11 semester physics credits, as outlined below, chosen in consultation with members of the department so as to form a coherent program in support of the student’s interests and goals.

Required courses

Three core physics courses

The following three core physics courses with department approval, another 300-level physics course may replace ONE of these courses, but students considering graduate school in physics or astronomy should take all three.

Two or more of the following courses:

Capstone Experience

All majors in their junior and senior year are required to participate in a research project for one semester or for a summer. Each student is required to write a report and give an oral presentation about the project.

Recommended courses outside the department

MATH 221 and MATH 212 are highly recommended for students planning on pursuing graduate school in astronomy, engineering, physics or related fields. Computer Programming (COMP 115 ) is also highly recommended.

Physics and Engineering: Dual Degree

Students who are interested in using physics as a base to pursue an engineering career should consider participating in a Wheaton dual-degree program in engineering. This program allows students completing three years at Wheaton and two or more additional years at another institution to earn a bachelor of arts degree from Wheaton and a bachelor’s degree in Engineering.

Departmental Honors

Departmental honors will be awarded to students who successfully complete the Senior Honors Thesis and have an average of B+ or better in the major and an average of B or better overall.