Physics

The Osprey Map provides a term-by-term sample schedule for each undergraduate academic program at the University of North Florida. It is designed to guide students in the selection of courses each term. The "Mile Marker" courses are those courses that should be completed before or by the end of that term. Following the sample schedule, and completing the mile marker courses at the appropriate point of your undergraduate career, will facilitate graduation in four years. The term-by-term model assumes full-time enrollment. For students enrolled part-time, the sample schedule and mile markers should be followed based on the number of credits completed. The Osprey Map should be used in consultation with an academic advisor.

The Bachelor of Science in Traditional Physics is the most popular option in the Physics major. With traditional physics, students have the greatest number of free electives and therefore have flexibility in choosing a second area of study outside of physics. The core topics of physics include: mechanics (motion, forces, and energy); thermodynamics, sound, and light; electricity and magnetism; relativity and quantum mechanics. The modern areas of physics research are: astrophysics and general relativity; atomic, molecular, and optical physics; biophysics; condensed matter physics (e.g. magnetism, semiconductors, superconductors); nuclear physics; particle physics; and plasma physics. The UNF B.S. physics programs focus on preparing graduates for employment in a wide array of technical and non-technical fields or for graduate studies. Traditional physics majors are encouraged to consider enhancing their major with a minor in complementary applied fields, such as electrical engineering, computer science or business.

Career Planning
Engaging in career planning activities is significant to student success. UNF offers customized career centers to deliver targeted programs, events, services and resources. First-Year and Exploratory students should visit the Career Services webpage and Sophomore or higher level students with a declared COAS major should visit the College of Arts and Sciences Career Success Center.

Students should refer to their personalized Degree Evaluation provided by an academic advisor and to other university resources for additional university and college-specific policies. Visit the undergraduate university catalog for more information.

Summer terms may be utilized to facilitate graduation in four years.

• Visit the university catalog for a list of General Education requirement. An Associate in Arts (AA) degree from a Florida public university, state college or community college satisfies UNF general education and Gordon Rule requirements. Math selection is contingent upon appropriate placement score, the student’s major and credit received through accelerated mechanisms (Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Dual Enrollment, etc). All students should consult with the chair of the physics department or one of the physics department faculty and their academic advisor.
• Visit the Physics Department webpage for a complete list of Physics prerequisites. PHY 1028 Introduction to Physics is a prerequisite for PHY 2048C Calculus Based Physics I. Students requiring preparation for MAC 2311 Calculus I take MAC 1147 Precalculus.
• Students in the physics major will find courses in mathematics to be valuable free electives. Most Physics majors take at least one math course each term. Suggested math courses include MAS3105 Linear Algebra, MAS4156 Vector Analysis, MAA4402 Complex Analysis, MAD4401 Numerical Analysis and MAP4341 Elementary Partial Differential Equations. Students majoring in Physics frequently choose to add the Minor in Mathematical Science.
• Students are encouraged to engage in research with a faculty mentor in physics early in their academic career at UNF. Faculty will explain the opportunities they offer for students to become involved in their respective programs of research. Research opportunities may be available year-round. A Physics Internship Program is available to students. Visit the Physics Department webpage for more information. Internship applications are available under Helpful Links on the department webpage.
• Students must complete two of the following Major Electives: AST3217 Astrophysics I, AST3402 Astrophysics II, PHZ4404 Solid State Physics, PHZ4160 Adv Topics Physics, PHZ4303 Nuclear Physics, PHY4660 Introduction to Quantum Field Theory or PHY4610 Applications of Quantum Mechanics (effective spring 2020 term). Students are encouraged to take additional physics electives as free electives.
• Civic Literacy Requirement: Prior to graduation from a Florida state university, students must demonstrate competency in civic literacy through successful completion of a civic literacy course (AMH 2020 or POS 2041) and by achieving a passing score on an assessment. Consult an academic advisor, the university catalog and visit the Civic Literacy webpage for additional information.
• A minimum of 120 hours (48 hours at the upper 3000/4000 level) is required for the bachelor's degree in Physics. Students should consult with an academic advisor or a Physics department faculty member regarding their Free Elective hours and options. For additional information visit the College of Arts and Sciences Advising Office webpage.