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Contact UsAs a Physics major, you’ll take courses in topics such as:
- Modern physics
- Classical mechanics
- Quantum mechanics
- Electricity & magnetism
- Optics
- Thermodynamics
- Chemistry
- Calculus
The curriculum explores physics’ various disciplines in detail, giving students the opportunity to build in-depth knowledge about the workings of the physical world, from mechanics and magnetism to electricity and thermodynamics. The coursework also includes classes in related disciplines, such as calculus — a key tool for scientific problem-solving — and chemistry — an essential connection to other applied sciences. Along with technical knowledge, the curriculum imparts valuable skills in critical thinking and scientific analysis. Students will also take classes in computer science and communication, providing additional skills to support their future careers.
The major in physics requires 37 credit hours of physics courses, with 23 credit hours earned in core physics courses and 14 credit hours in physics elective courses. Plus, an additional 12 credit hours of calculus.
The MC Experience
The Department of Computer Science and Physics is a dynamic environment, energized by the relationship between one of science’s oldest disciplines and one of its newest. Physics describes the foundation and building blocks of the physical world; computer science is one of the most exciting fields to arise out of that set of rules. Students of both must balance theory and practice as they master the art of problem solving. At the Department of Computer Science and Physics, we offer students a chance to experience the challenges and rewards of solving problems and overcoming challenges, using mathematics and technology as tools. Coming from a variety of backgrounds, the physics faculty represent a rich, diverse selection of skills and expertise.
How You’ll Learn
Benefit from the expertise and research experience of our faculty members, who hold advanced degrees in physics, electrical engineering, and engineering mechanics. They’re accomplished scientists as well as dedicated teachers, with research experiences in thermal signatures of terrain and man-made structures, the dielectric properties of soils, the electric charge in lighting, Raman and infrared spectroscopy, and more. With small classes, and a student-teacher ratio of 10-1, you’ll have a very personal learning experience in the Physics Department at MC.
First-class facilities give physics majors more tools for learning. Physics students enjoy newly updated classrooms and labs, with built-in multimedia presentation capability to enhance lectures. The physical science library offers additional academic resources to supplement the science holdings of the main library. An open-access computer lab and wireless internet access make connecting easy.
Where You’ll Go
Research opportunities add to the learning experience. At Mississippi College, even undergrads get to participate in real-life field research — making them the envy of their peers at larger institutions. In summer 2011, a research team composed of students and faculty members took part in a 6-week field study of cloud-to-ground and intra-cloud lightning in the area surrounding Florida’s Kennedy Space Center.
MC’s physics alumni are making significant contributions in the fields of physics and engineering. For example, Clifford Charlesworth, a flight director at NASA, who was involved in several Apollo missions — including the Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 moon landings. Or Dr. Joseph Hamilton, who recently served as a principal investigator on the research project that discovered Element 117.
