The physics major at Longwood provides fundamental training in several areas of physics so that graduates may pursue graduate study or careers in research, industry, teaching, or engineering. Those who wish to major in physics may choose from the following options:
- traditional physics major for students interested in preparation for graduate work or careers in research, industry, or teaching.
- biophysics concentration for students interested in preparation for medical school or graduate work in biophysics.
- cooperative engineering for students interested in engineering programs with other universities.
- teacher preparation for students interested in preparation for a career in secondary education.
- engineering physics for students interested in preparation for graduate work in engineering or engineering careers in industry or research.
Courses in physics, mathematics, and chemistry are required for all physics majors. Many physics majors elect to double major in both physics and some other discipline. Also, a student majoring in another field may choose to minor in physics. The minor program requires 20 credits in physics. No grade below C- in physics courses (or substituted courses used to fulfill physics course requirements) is accepted for the major or minor in physics.
Students may take a maximum of four credits total in Internship (Biology/Chemistry/PHYS 292, PHYS 392, PHYS 492) and Research (Biology/Chemistry/PHYS 496) courses for quality points (A, B, C, and D grades). Beyond four credits, such courses must be taken on a Pass/Fail basis.
A student may seek a secondary teaching endorsement in physics. This concentration consists of courses required for a physics major and additional courses in BIOL, EASC, EDUC, SCED, and SPED. Interested students should meet with the Secondary Science Education Program Coordinator for advising on preparation for secondary science teaching.
