The defining characteristic of physics is the quest for the underlying logic—the theoretical structure that unifies and explains all the different phenomena that we study experimentally. Both the experiments themselves and the theoretical work that goes on at the same time are motivated primarily by this quest. As a by-product of this quest, physicists have pioneered many of the basic ideas on which our modern technology rests. Such developments as transistors, lasers and perhaps someday fusion energy all come directly from research in physics.Program objectives

• Provide students with the opportunity to master the fundamental areas of physics: classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics and thermodynamics.
• Allow students to develop problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze physical systems and to understand the theoretical framework that applies to them.
• Provide students with a basic mastery of experimental science, including an understanding of data reduction and error analysis.
• Teach students to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Provide students with the opportunity to develop a basic knowledge of and facility with computing.