Major
A Physics major is required to pass Physics 110, 111, 212 and choose one of two concentrations:
Concentration in Physics. Students selecting this concentration must pass Physics 314, 414, and at least three courses chosen from Physics 310, 311, 312, 410, and 412. This minimum program is appropriate for students using physics as preparation for careers in fields such as medicine, law, business, or secondary-school teaching. (Such students will also find courses in chemistry, biology, and computer science to be valuable.) Students who wish to pursue physics as a career in research or in college or university teaching should take the graduate study preparation program, which consists of all the courses listed above (i.e., it includes all five of Physics 310, 311, 312, 410, and 412). A graduate of this program could pursue undelayed full-time graduate study in physics or could enter certain positions in industrial or governmental laboratories.
Concentration in Astrophysics. Students selecting this concentration must pass Astronomy 301, 302, Physics 310, 311, 314 and either Physics 414 or 242. Students who wish to become professional astronomers should consult Mr. Stinebring or Mr. Martin to discuss additional coursework that will permit admission to graduate study in astronomy.
Prerequisites for the courses in either concentration include Mathematics 133, 134, 231, and 234. Computer applications are important in all branches of physics and astronomy. All majors are urged to consult their advisors about obtaining the appropriate background.
Courses listed above in which a student has earned Credit, Pass, or a letter grade of D or higher may be used to fulfill the requirements of the major.
Minor
The minor in physics consists of Physics 110, 111, 212, and six credit hours of courses numbered between 200 and 450. At least three of these courses must be taken at Oberlin.
Winter Term
Physics and Astronomy faculty will consider sponsoring student-initiated experimental or theoretical (reading) projects in areas of physics or astronomy. Staff members have special interests in the areas shown below.
Mr. FitzGerald: physics of sports, investigation of fullerene materials. Ms. Ijiri: magnetic materials, x-ray and neutron scattering, experimental condensed matter physics. Ms. Keller: optics, physics education. Mr. Martin: atmospheric physics, radio astronomy, cosmology, Antarctic astronomy, computational physics, instrumentation, electronics. Mr. Richards: acoustics, optics. Mr. Scofield: experimental solid state physics, photovoltaic and wind energy, energy use in buildings. Mr. Stinebring: radio astronomy, pulsars, cosmology, instrumentation, image processing. Mr. Styer: relativity for non-scientists, mini-research projects in theoretical physics.
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