Physics Curriculum Overview

This is an archived copy of the 2020-2021 Catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.norwich.edu/.

Associate Professors: Robert Knapik (Chair); Assistant Professors: Jean Sebastien Gagnon, K. Tabetha Hole and David Jacobs Lecturers: Elisabeth Atems and Robert Stockett (Lab Coordinator)

Physics is a mathematical science and as such is rigorous and demanding.  It presents a challenge found in few other disciplines.  At Norwich University, the Bachelor of Science in Physics is offered to students desiring an excellent schooling in the fundamentals of physics. The program encompasses a complete curriculum comprised of classical and quantum physics ranging from the properties of particles to the dynamics of the universe.   All disciplines in science and engineering turn to physics to address the foundation of their fields. 

Hallmarks of a Norwich education include experiential learning and leadership development.  The Department of Physics therefore not only accentuates laboratory work but also insists upon peer collaboration throughout the curriculum. Physics majors, having the advantage of a 3-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, develop close working relationships with their faculty mentors culminating in original research conducted in a faculty laboratory.  Physics majors regularly present the results of their research at regional and national conferences.  Currently, the research interests of the faculty include particle physics, material science, astrophysics and geophysical fluid dynamics. 

Goals:
  • The Department is committed to developing the maximum potential of every individual majoring in physics.  It is devoted to the proposition that physics majors will, upon graduation, have a well-founded understanding of the physics that underlies all aspects of the physical universe.  Such an education will insure that Norwich graduates have open to them and are successful in a full range of satisfying career opportunities.

Outcomes:
  • Graduates understand fundamental physical processes from classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, electricity and magnetism, and statistical mechanics and thermodynamics.
  • Graduates are able to apply and interpret the mathematics used in modeling physical situations.
  • Graduates are able to apply sound research methods to address questions they develop and those posed by others.
  • Graduates function as effective communicators, both in spoken and written words.
  • Graduates are prepared for successful employment in physics and related fields or for entry into graduate and professional schools.
  • Graduates are prepared to function as members of inter- and cross-disciplinary teams that formulate and execute solutions to complex, open-ended problems.

Careers for this Major:
  • Industry
  • Government
  • Graduate work in physics and other physical sciences
  • Military