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Physics Learning Outcomes

Knowledge-Based

All our graduates will be able to:

  • Master a broad set of knowledge concerning the fundamentals in the basic areas of Physics (Classical and Quantum Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Thermodynamics, Waves, and Modern Physics).
  • Solve problems competently by identifying the essential parts of a problem and formulating a strategy for solving the problem. They will be able to rationally estimate the solution to a problem, apply appropriate techniques to arrive at a solution, test the correctness of the solution, and interpret their results.

Performance/Skills-Based

All our graduates will demonstrate the ability to:

  • Understand the objective of their experiments; properly carry out the experiments; troubleshoot experiments; appropriately record and analyze the results; understand what constitutes “reasonable” data; estimate the error bounds on their measurements.
  • Use standard laboratory equipment, modern instrumentation, and classical techniques to carry out experiments, follow the regulations for safe handling and use of materials using electricity, lasers and other potentially hazardous equipment.
  • Use computers in data acquisition and processing and use available software as a tool in data analysis.
  • Communicate the concepts and results of their laboratory experiments through effective writing and oral communication skills.
  • Employ modern library search tools to locate and retrieve scientific information about a topic, a material, an instrument, or an issue relating to physics.

Professional

All graduates will:

  • Maintain the integrity of data and demonstrate high ethical and professional standards in reporting of information in accordance with the American Physical Society guidelines for Professional Conduct.
  • Successfully pursue their career objectives such as in advanced education in professional and/or graduate schools, in a scientific career in government or industry, in a teaching career, or in a related career following graduation.
  • Function successfully as part of a team, exhibit good citizenship in group interactions, and be an active contributor to group projects.