What is Physics major: Definition and 332 Discussions

Physics education refers to the methods currently used to teach physics. Physics Education Research refers to an area of pedagogical research that seeks to improve those methods. Historically, physics has been taught at the high school and college level primarily by the lecture method together with laboratory exercises aimed at verifying concepts taught in the lectures. These concepts are better understood when lectures are accompanied with demonstration, hand-on experiments, and questions that require students to ponder what will happen in an experiment and why. Students who participate in active learning for example with hands-on experiments learn through self-discovery. By trial and error they learn to change their preconceptions about phenomena in physics and discover the underlying concepts.

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  1. J

    1st Year Physics Major Interested in Laser Physics.

    Hello, As stated in the title, I've just completed a first year in physics and am interested in working in the field of laser science. Bear with me, as my questions may sound naive. Ideally, I would like to hear from those currently in the field, but any advice is welcome. 1.) Did you begin...
  2. K

    Programs Incoming Freshmen Physics Major

    Hey hi hello there. Incoming freshmen physics major here. I'm staring my first year of undergrad school and I'm majoring in physics but I have to spend my first year just taking math courses and I won't be able to take a physics course until my second year. Did anyone else on here go through this?
  3. L

    Programs Math courses for a Physics major (that aren't required)

    I'm going into my third year in Physics in fall and I have some room on schedule and would like to take some math courses beyond the requirements at my uni since I enjoy math and want to have a head start in graduate school. My school only required calculus (up to multivariable calc.)...
  4. jbrussell93

    Geo classes for a physics major?

    I'm a physics major currently doing an REU in seismology, and I'm really enjoying it. I think I've finally found the field I'd like to pursue in grad school :approve:. I'm definitely planning on going for a geo science minor, but I'm wondering which classes would be useful to me going to grad...
  5. W

    Programs CS courses for a Physics major

    Hello PF :) I am a physics-major-wannabe who wishes to increase his employability by supplementing my degree with computer science courses. I have already taken Python and C and will most likely take C++ with Unix next semester. I have a room for two more elective courses, but as a non-CS...
  6. C

    Career option with Bsc physics major.

    I have physics as my major(honours) in Bsc and have the subject combination of computer science, math and physics. And I am interested in C.sc and love PROGRAMMING. So what will be the better career option for me ? PS: I am interested in knowing career aspects in artificial intelligence and...
  7. M

    Programs Transferring to UT Austin as a physics major.

    Finished most of my basics and calculus series at a community college and now I'm transferring to UT Austin to take ALL my University physics courses and advanced math such as PDE. I haven't taken a physics course since High School, and I want to go over all the concepts during summer so when I...
  8. P

    Programs Programming for undergrad physics major

    I'm starting my undergraduate degree in physical/mathematical sciences at the University of Toronto in the fall. My long-term goal at this point is a career in academia, probably theoretical physics, but I don't want to close any doors on the experimental side. Other than coursework, I would...
  9. S

    Programs Transition from lower division to upper division as a physics major

    I'm finishing up my 2nd year of college at a local CC transferring to university in the Fall working on a BS in astrophysics and math minor. I've worked out my schedule so far for the next 3 years (taking an extra year due to some general ed's not transferring) and it looks like for all but my...
  10. Ascendant78

    What software is useful for a physics major?

    I am just finishing my freshman year as a physics major. I am wondering what software might be useful to get my hands on at this point? In chemistry, we used computers with Linux because he said they are able to process the information much faster than a Windows-based computer. Will most of...
  11. P

    Programs Which math courses will be most useful in a physics major?

    Abstract linear algebra, differential equations applications, or partial differential equations. Id realistically like to take only two of the three courses, so which three would be most beneficial? Thanks in advance!
  12. A

    Licenses and Certs for Physics Major?

    I will graduate this spring with a B.S. in Physics. Are there any tests I can take to get a license or a certification that will make me more appealing for an engineering position? Could I take the test to become a P.E. without actually having a degree in engineering? Can I take something...
  13. Ascendant78

    Schools What to do over summer? (College freshman physics major)

    I'm in my first year of college as a physics major and I am not taking any courses this summer. I only have to work part-time, so I will have some spare time on my hands to do some extra studies. Since I am going to a small and affordable college for my AA, they have no research programs...
  14. Darth Frodo

    Programs Physics Major has become disenchanted with physics.

    Hi all, I'm in a bit of a sticky situation at the moment. I am a European so unfortunately I don't have the same freedom in choosing my electives or major as the US. Right now I'm currently doing a B.Sc in Mathematics and Physics. So far I have had 5 math modules (currently doing 3), 4...
  15. Z

    Programs Physics major for medical school?

    It seems like a bit of an odd question, at least in my mind. But i have an immense passion for both physics and medicine. I did research on getting into med school and many people recommend majoring in whatever you love doing, as long as you get the requirements for pre-med. They also say that...
  16. M

    Programs Physics major: which classes should I take for my two related electives?

    Its premature, but I definitely feel more aligned with theoretical physics over experimental. With that said, would math or computer science electives serve me better? I can choose 2 courses. Thanks!
  17. Ascendant78

    Programs First year with physics major. What to learn in spare time?

    I am a non-traditional student looking to change career paths. Though I am in my first year of college, I already know I want my major to be in high-energy physics. I am in a small community college for now as I need to save money. As such, there is not much of anything in my field that I can...
  18. J

    Programs Physics major needs advice on choosing a minor

    I'm going for a B.S. in physics and haven't decided yet whether I'm going to use my elective credits to minor in chemistry double major in B.S. mathematics. Eventually, I'd like to do graduate work in cosmology or nuclear or theoretical physics. Which of these two options (if either) would be...
  19. K

    C# Should Undergrad Physics major learn C#?

    I'm an undergraduate Physics major. I'm interested in doing research, right now I'm aiming to do undergraduate research in photonics (I'm just a freshman). After a conversation, I learned that I should learn C++, mathlab, AUTOcad and labview to use in my research. My question is: Does it...
  20. A

    Programs Applying to College as a Physics Major: Is My Math Up to Par?

    I am currently a senior in high school applying to college. My question is whether or not o should apply undecided or as a physics major. I know I want to be a physicist but my math grades have been a bit shaky. I've improve my math grades this year and I'm getting a c plus in adv precalculus...
  21. P

    Programs Combinatorial Math: Helpful for physics major?

    Hello all, The spring schedule is out and I'm trying to figure out what class to take with my required physics courses. I will be taking EM, Quantum, Directed Research, and I'm a TA for University Physics II. Which is 10.5 credits (TA is 1.5). I still need one more class to be full time. I...
  22. J

    What is the best laptop to buy a physics major?

    Currently I am in Grade 10 (Math and Physics 11) and next year my mother will be purchasing me a laptop for school purposes. I plan on majoring in physics in university, so I was wondering what sort of laptop I should get. The only reason I am worrying about this right now is because I don't...
  23. S

    How much Pure Math is in Physics, pure math / physics major?

    I really like pure math, like analysis, topology, and number theory, but I also like physics. I am wondering how many applications pure math has in higher level physics, because I don't want it to leave my life. And also, would a pure math /physics double major be intuitive or a waste of my...
  24. P

    Physics A physics major is not good preparation for a career in software development

    Whenever people ask what jobs they can do with a B.S. in physics (and to a lesser extent with an M.S. or Ph.D.), one of the first suggestions offered is that they can become a programmer. In my opinion, this is seriously wrong and harmful advice. Look at the standard courses that physics...
  25. O

    Programs Is this burnout? 4th year physics major

    I was hoping to get some other perspectives on this and then see how the next few weeks are before making any stupid decisions like talking to my advisor about it. I'm in the perfect situation for applying to grad schools if I work my *** off - but I'm sick of the whole thing. Only I don't know...
  26. N

    Engineering Can a Physics major get a job as an engineer?

    I'm a freshman in a University and right now my major is mechanical engineering. I've been told by some people that a physics major can get me a job as an engineer with some on the job training. Is this true? Will duel majoring in physics and mechanical engineering help get me a well paid...
  27. A

    Programs Physics major wondering what to specialize in

    Here is my problem... On the one hand: I know I love mathematics, and enjoy being able to describe physical phenomena with it. Predicting the future with such an incredible degree of accuracy is FUN to me. I know I love fishing out the secrets of the universe, and mulling through the...
  28. R

    Programs Physics vs Math & Physics Major

    Hello, Next month I will begin my first year at the University of Toronto for my undergrad and I have a question regarding which major I should declare at the end of the academic year. I intend on pursuing physics into graduate school (likely more on the theoretical side) and so the two...
  29. T

    Programs Calculus Checklist for Upper Division Physics Major

    Returning Physics Major (hopeful) needing a Calculus "checklist" for Upper Division. Hello everyone, currently I've been out of school for roughly two years now. As the title suggest I'm a Physics major going into my first year of upper division. The first ourse is a "Intro to Math Methods in...
  30. B

    Programs ADVICE Welcomed - EE Major / Physics Major / Computer Programming

    I am going to Penn State next year as a freshman undergraduate for Physics and EE. I need advice from others who have been through the typical freshman and Sophomore years and the typical experience. Specifically, are there are recommended books/texts that I should have next year for both...
  31. L

    Navigating College Math Requirements for a Physics Major

    I will be a freshman in college this upcoming Fall semester, and I intend to be a Physics major. I took Multivariable Calculus at the local community college in High School and received a relatively poor grade in it, but I'm self-studying it now. I am confident that I will know all the material...
  32. M

    Programs Parents Won't Pay for Physics Major

    My dad and I have been discussing my academic future lately, and he has said that he won't pay for me to major in physics because of the extra time it would take me. He also says that if I decide to major in physics or any field that will take me more than five semesters (from now, not from...
  33. S

    Physics Major - Teaching Outlook?

    Hello PF! I just finished my freshman year at my local CC majoring in physics. I did not chose to major in physics to become a theoretical physicist, esteemed professor, or the next Einstein. I chose to major in physics because I want to teach kids about science and the universe around us...
  34. B

    Physics I currently am a physics major in college and I really want to fly.

    I currently am a physics major in college and I really want to fly. What are some career options?
  35. A

    Programs Reviewing elementary mathematics for physics major

    Hello, I am a physics major and although I did exceedingly well in my basic math courses (algebra, pre-cal, etc.) I feel like I need a good review. Does anyone have any suggestions of resources that I can tap into to do this? I may end up going back over old textbooks but I was...
  36. J

    Programs Fail Physics major? ISO opinions

    Iwe been planning on studying Physics for a few years now. And well. I just got done with my first year of uni. And Iwe had a horrible time of it. First year is undecided major hence general intro courses into everything. The curriculum and amount of work required at this uni is very tough. Much...
  37. T

    Programs Self-learning math for a physics major

    I'm a physics major and I'm pretty sure that I want to go into theoretical physics research. Due to scheduling difficulties and such, I haven't been able to systematically study math. I'm am very comfortable with all the basic math that any physics major should know - multivariable calc, PDEs...
  38. R

    Aerospace Jobs with Physics Major?

    Is it possible to get a job in aerospace industries with a major in physics? I am planning to go for either a MS or PhD later on if I do pick a BS in physics. I like theory more than applications. Obviously applications are important, but physics appeals to me more. Its the kind of reading I...
  39. C

    Programs Should I still pursue a physics major?

    Hello, I'm feeling a little discouraged lately. I'm taking my second introductory physics course this semester, and although I'm doing excellent with the algebra material, I'm terrible at calculus based physics (our class does both separately, with the calculus being 20% of total grade). If I...
  40. P

    Programs Should i be a physics major instead?

    i'm a sophomore and I'm almost a junior by now... i took a year of intro physics this year and am considering majoring in it. originally i had planned on studying chemistry, but now i really like how differential math is used to prove physics. i'm also beginning to realize that in organic...
  41. H

    Programs Physics major preoccupied with pure math

    I lack talent in pure mathematics. (Although applying mathematical methods has been natural for me.) I am a physics freshman. I can prove and I can self study mathematics given enough time. I guess it's still too early to decide, but, I suppose, I'll be doing theoretical/mathematical physics...
  42. J

    Programs Physics Major: Good at theory, Terrible in the lab

    I am currently a Physics-Math B.S. Major in my junior year of my undergrad work. I had an internship last summer and based off of my supervisor's non-response to my e-mails requesting to return, I didn't do so hot. I am taking a modern physics lab class right now and I understand the theory and...
  43. A

    Programs Succeeding in physics without having physics major And powerful math

    Hi folks , I want to know could a guy succeed In Physic Without Having Physic Major And Powerful Math ? I like physics but because of not having powerful math and physics ، and my family opinions I'm learning biology( But I like biology too )
  44. J

    Engineering Physics major + which engineering?

    Good evening, everyone. I am a high school graduate who is about to enter the university. I think I have some idea of what I want to do in the future, because I am totally sure I want to enroll in a pure physics major. However, I know that nowadays that might not be enough to successfully...
  45. J

    Programs Physics Major: Should I transfer to UCLA or UCSB?

    Hello, I am currently a college student planning on transferring this upcoming fall. I am a Physics major with plans to get a Ph.D in theoretical Physics. What school, do you think, will better prepare me for my academic path? Thanks all!
  46. P

    Programs Math Education for the Physics Major

    Dear PF, I've been a lurker for about a year now and decided I needed a bit more advice: I'm a freshman physics major getting ready to pick classes for this spring quarter. So far I've taken/taking: Fall: Multivariable Calculus: A Honors Intro Mechanics: A Winter: Vector Calculus...
  47. A

    Programs How Can a New Physics Major Thrive at UT Austin?

    Ive been accepted to University of Texas at Austin as a physics major! Still waiting on a reply from MIT but I am not holding my breath. I was wondering if anybody has any tips for a soon-to-be physics major, or perhaps anyone who actually attended UT Austin who could offer some tips about the...
  48. S

    Programs Best language to accompany physics major?

    For my physics major I'm required to take a broadening unit each semester. I've decided I'll learn a language, I'm thinking either German or Japanese (although I would welcome other suggestions). I would be just as happy to learn either language, so I thought I'd pose the question as to which...
  49. P

    Programs Physics major vs mechanical engineering?

    Hey guys. So I came here to ask a couple of questions that you guys probably know the answers to. Basically, I am a high school senior and I took physics in my junior year, and I loved it so much I took it again in senior year (this time just a higher level course). I'm really loving it. I ace...
  50. E

    Programs I could use some advice (potential math or physics major)

    Greetings, So I was trying to sketch some plans about what to do in college. One option would be Engineering here in Brazil, in my city we have a great Engineering school, which is known for giving its students a ton of work opportunities - it wouldn't be too hard for me to get a fairly...
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