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 and Internships Scholarships and Awards Careers in Physics SPS < Physics Home << Department Home |
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Careers in Physics Curricula and Course Offerings Internships and Student Opportunities Information for New Students For More Information The physics major is offered by the Department of Physics, Astronomy, & Geosciences, which is committed to the idea that students are always the first priority. The size of the physics program is ideal: large enough to provide students with a wide array of opportunities, yet small enough to allow one-on-one instruction and mentoring. The undergraduate program emphasizes the fundamental aspects of physics and their applications through quality teaching and direct research experience. The faculty are active in both experimental and theoretical research, and are expected to involve students in their activities. Some advantages of an undergraduate physics education at Towson University are:
Students who graduate with a bachelor’s degree in physics have many options. Some pursue an advanced degree in physics or related fields such as engineering, astrophysics, biophysics or medicine. Others seek immediate employment. Possible jobs fall into four major categories: research, development and design, management, and education. Towson’s graduates are found:
The Department of Physics, Astronomy, & Geosciences offers both general and applied concentrations as well as a teaching concentration in physics. Additionally, a program in astronomy is in the development stage. Within these concentrations a coherent program can be developed with an emphasis on astrophysics, optics, elementary particle physics, nanotechnology, electronics, or nuclear physics. All physics majors must complete a core of 31 credit hours in physics as well as 23 hours in mathematics, chemistry, and computer science. An additional 14 hours of electives complete the major. General Concentration in Physics [see full description and requirements] This program is designed to provide students with a broad base in physics with opportunities for in depth study of a variety of specialized subjects. By selecting appropriate electives and independent study, the student may prepare for graduate studies or a career in some special field. Applied Concentration in Physics [see full description and requirements] This option combines a thorough but flexible training in physics. The student may prepare for graduate study or for immediate employment. Students may develop a program emphasizing study in optics, astrophysics, or solid state physics. In each concentration, it is possible to develop an individualized program. This must have internal coherence and be approved by the student’s advisor. Teaching Concentration in Physics [see full description and requirements] Designed for prospective teachers of physics and physical sciences at the secondary school level, this program offers a balance of physics, mathematics, and supporting science and science education courses. This program is approved by the Maryland State Department of Education, which uses the program standards set by NASDTEC, and qualifies graduates for certification in all member states. Because of the licensure requirements, students need to have an advisor in both physics and secondary education. Dual-Degree Program [see full description and requirements] The dual-degree program is a cooperative arrangement between Towson University and the College of Engineering at the University of Maryland College Park or the Pennsylvania State University which allows students to earn baccalaureate degrees from both institutions in a five-year period. After completion of the junior year (at least 90 credits) at Towson, the student transfers to the University of Maryland for approximately two additional years (approximately 60 credits). Upon completion of the requirements of the physics major program, the student will receive a bachelor’s degree in physics from Towson University. The baccalaureate engineering degree in the student's area of specialization will be awarded when the requirements of the College of Engineering are completed. Physics Minor [see full description and requirements] An important aspect of physics is its overall contribution to other disciplines. The physics minor provides majors in any of the sciences, mathematics, business, or humanities with a background in physics that will broaden their understanding of nature and enhance their career opportunities. The student must complete 24 credits in physics. Students may organize their particular courses of studies to supplement their major program or reflect their particular interests. Professional Science Master's Program in Applied Physics (M.S.)[see full description and requirements] Towson University’s Master of Science in Applied Physics program is designed to prepare graduates for leadership positions in a wide range of science and technology careers. The program is recognized by the Council of Graduate Schools as a Professional Science Master’s program (PSM) and is one of about 10 PSMs in physics nationwide and one of only two on the east coast. B.S. in Physics and M.S. in Computer Science [see full description and requirements] The Departments of Physics, Astronomy, & Geosciences and Computer and Information Sciences offer a “four-one” program that will lead to a B.S. in physics and an M.S. in computer science in five years. Students may satisfy the requirements for the physics major and graduate with their class. By taking additional advanced computer science courses as electives, they will be able to meet the requirements for the M.S. in computer science in a fifth year. Second Bachelor’s Degree in Physics [see full description and requirements] Students who have already received a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree are eligible for Towson University’s second bachelor’s degree. The student must complete 30 credits while at Towson and must meet the requirements of the physics major with at least half of the physics credits completed in residence at Towson after the first degree. The advanced writing course is also required. Honors and Awards The Physics Department, under the direction of the University Honors Board, offers an honors program in physics. Students with demonstrated ability will be invited by the Department to participate in this program. Such persons will work closely with faculty members in a tutorial relationship and participate in an individualized program of research, directed reading, independent study and a seminar. An honors thesis is required. In recognition of Professor Edward I. Rubendall and William F. Pelham's contributions to physics, the Department of Physics, Astronomy, & Geosciences, and Towson University, the department and friends of the department have established the Edward I. Rubendall Physics Achievement Awards and William F. Pelham Award. The Rubendall awards are given annually to the outstanding junior and senior majoring in physics. The Pelham award is given to the outstanding junior majoring in a program available in the department. Part-time Employment The Department needs the help of students to operate smoothly. While the hourly wage rate allowed is modest, the experience contributes greatly to an education. Students with a demonstrated knowledge of the subject are hired as tutors, laboratory assistants, or graders for introductory physics courses. This will especially benefit those who are thinking of taking the Graduate Record Examination and going to graduate school. The Department also needs students who have machine shop, electronic, and computer skills. Also, faculty sometimes have funds available for assistants to assist them in their own research. Colloquia and Seminars In addition to its technical facilities, the department offers a colloquium series that focuses on topics of general interest. Speakers from Towson and other institutions, government agencies, and industry describe their recent discoveries. By attending these seminars and interacting with these scholars and scientists, students gain a broad perspective of today's world of science. Student Organizations A local chapter of the Society of Physics Students (SPS) is maintained at Towson University. The function of SPS is to promote educational activities for all students interested in physics. Any student enrolled at the university may become a member. For the past several years, there have been trips to local industries and national labs such as Brookhaven National laboratory, Goddard Space Flight Center, and the National Radio Astronomy Observatory. The physics honor society, SIGMA PI SIGMA, a member of the Association of College Honor Societies, exists within the framework of SPS. Students who have achieved high scholar-ship in physics may be elected to membership in Sigma Pi Sigma. Freshman Physics Majors Students who plan to major in physics should take a solid academic program in high school. Although high school physics not essential, it is highly desirable to take advantage of whatever courses are available in regular or advanced placement physics and to take as much mathematics as possible. Students who have had strong preparation in mathematics, chemistry, or physics can receive advanced placement credit. High school faculty and students are invited to visit the department. Physics Transfer Students Students who plan to enter Towson University from a community college at the end of their sophomore year should plan to take calculus-based general physics, one year of general chemistry, mathematics through differential and integral calculus before transferring. Completion of these courses will usually allow the completion of the normal physics curriculum in two years at Towson. Please contact: Department of Physics, Astronomy, & Geosciences Smith Hall, room 445 Towson University Towson, MD 21252-0001 t. 410-704-3020 f. 410-704-3511 email: dschaefer@towson.edu www.towson.edu/PAGS Office of Admissions Towson University 8000 York Road Towson, MD 21252-0001 t. 410-704-2113 wwwnew.towson.edu/discover/ |