Physics
OFFICES:
General Administration: 1110-113 Urey Hall Addition, Revelle College
Graduate Student Affairs: 1110-121 Urey Hall Addition
Undergraduate Student Affairs: 1110-115 Urey Hall Addition
Chairs Office: 1110-113 Urey Hall Addition
Web site: http://physics.ucsd.edu
Professors
Courses
The Department of Physics was established in 1960 as the first new department
of the UCSD campus. Since then it has developed a strong faculty and student
body with unusually diversified interests which lie primarily in the following
areas:
- Physics of elementary particles
- Quantum liquids and superconductivity
- Solid state and statistical physics
- Plasma physics
- Astrophysics and space physics
- Atomic and molecular collision and structure
- Biophysics
- Geophysics
- Nonlinear dynamics
- Computational physics
In addition to on-campus research facilities, the high energy program
uses accelerators at SLAC, CERN, Cornell, and Fermi Laboratory. The astrophysics
program uses facilities at Keck, Lick, Mt. Lemmon, and Kitt Peak Observatories.
The Undergraduate Program
The Department of Physics offers undergraduate programs leading to the
following degrees:
B.S., Physics
B.S., Physics with Specialization in Astrophysics
B.S., Physics with Specialization in Biophysics
B.S., Physics with Specialization in Computational Physics
B.S., Physics with Specialization in Earth Sciences
B.S., Physics with Specialization in Materials Physics
B.A., General Physics
B.A., General Physics/Secondary Education
A grade-point average of 2.0 or higher in the upper-division major program
is required for graduation. Students must receive a grade of C or
better in any course to be counted toward fulfillment of the major requirements.
In exceptional cases, students with a grade-point average in the major
of 2.5 or greater may petition to have one grade of D accepted. All courses
(lower- and upper-division) required for the major must be taken for a
letter grade.
Shang-keng Ma Award
The Department of Physics presents the Shang-keng Ma Memorial Award at
commencement each year to a graduating physics student who has shown exceptional
ability and promise during the UCSD undergraduate years. The award was
established in 1984 to commemorate the contributions of Professor Ma to
the UCSD Department of Physics and to the field of theoretical condensed
matter physics.
John Holmes Malmberg Prize
The John Holmes Malmberg Prize is presented annually at commencement
to a graduating physics student who is recognized for potential for a
career in physics and a measure of experimental inquisitiveness. This
prize was established in 1993 in memory of Professor Malmberg who pioneered
the use of non-neutral plasmas for sophisticated tests of plasma equilibrium,
wave, and transport effects. He was an involved teacher of undergraduate
and graduate students and was active in departmental and campus affairs.
Physics Major (B.S. Degree)
The physics major provides a core of basic education in several principle
areas of physics, with sufficient flexibility to allow students to prepare
either for graduate school or a career in industry. Since in preparing
for either goal, more than the required core courses are necessary, it
is important for students to meet with a physics department adviser in
deciding a schedule.
In the junior year, the emphasis is on macroscopic physics; the two principal
physics subjects are electromagnetism and mechanics. The mathematics and
computer background required for the physics program is completed in this
year.
In the senior year, a sequence of courses in quantum physics provides
the student the modern view of atomic and some aspects of sub-atomic physics
and the principal analytical methods appropriate in this domain. The relation
of the microscopic to the macroscopic world is the subject of courses
in thermodynamics and statistical physics, with illustrations drawn from
gas dynamics and solid-state physics. Upper- division laboratories teach
students the essentials of physical measurement and building advanced
equipment, as well as other aspects of experimental science.
The following courses are required for the physics major:
Lower-Division
- Physics 4A-B-C-D-E or Physics 2A-B-C-D1
- Physics 2CL and 2DL
- Chemistry 6A or2 a programming
course such as MAE 9 or MAE 10
- Mathematics 20C-D-E-F
1 The Physics 4 series is recommended,
but the Physics 2 sequence is acceptable by petition, in which case both
2 Chemistry 6A and a programming course
are required
Upper-Division
- Physics 100A-B, 105A, 110A, 120A, 130A-B, 140A, and an additional
laboratory course from the lab group: 120B, 121, 133, 173
- Two courses from either the theoretical or experimental pre-grad-school
sequence
Theoretical pre-grad-school sequence: Phys. 100C, 105B, 110B, 130C,
140B
Experimental pre-grad-school sequence: Phys. 100C, 110B, 120B, 130C,
140B
- Restricted electives: Three upper-division (four-unit) or graduate
courses in physics or mathematics (only one). Courses in other science
disciplines may be substituted by petition.
For students wishing to prepare for graduate school it is important that
all courses in either the theorist or experimentalist pre-grad-school
sequence be taken. Mathematics 120A is also recommended.
Suggested Schedule (pre-graduate-school)
FALL
|
WINTER
|
SPRING
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 100A
|
Phys. 100B
|
Phys. 120A
|
Phys. 105A
|
Phys. elective3
|
Phys. 130A
|
Phys. 110A
|
Phys. 105B2
|
|
|
SENIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 140A
|
Phys. 140B2
|
Phys. lab1
|
Phys. 130B
|
Phys. elective3
|
Phys. elective3
|
|
1 Any course from lab group listed
above
2 Any two courses from theoretical
or experimental pre-grad-school sequence listed above
3 Any restricted elective as described
above
Suggested Schedule (career in industry)
FALL
|
WINTER
|
SPRING
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 100A
|
Phys. 100B
|
[pre-grad]4
|
Phys. 105A
|
Phys. elective3
|
Phys. 120A
|
Phys. 110A
|
[other]5
|
Phys. 130A
|
|
SENIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 140A
|
[pre-grad]4
|
Phys. elective3
|
Phys. lab2
|
Phys. elective3
|
[other]5
|
Phys. 130B
|
[other]5
|
|
|
2 Any course from lab group listed
above
3 Any restricted elective as described
above
4 any course from either pre-grad-school
sequence listed above
5 any other course as approved by adviser
(optional)
Physics Major with Specialization in Astrophysics (B.S. Degree)
The astrophysics specialization is appropriate for students who would
like to gain an in-depth understanding of modern astronomy and astrophysics,
and/or who wish to prepare for graduate school in astronomy or astrophysics.
It is similar to the standard physics major with electives being chosen
from astronomically oriented courses. A wide variety of technical, academic,
and professional careers are possible for students who choose this specialization.
The following courses are required for the physics major with specialization
in astrophysics:
Lower-Division
- Physics 4A-B-C-D-E or Physics 2A-B-C-D1
- Physics 2CL and 2DL
- Chemistry 6A or2 a programming course such as MAE 9 or MAE 10
- Mathematics 20C-D-E-F
1 The Physics 4 series is recommended,
but the Physics 2 sequence is acceptable, in which case both
2 Chemistry 6A and a programming course
are required.
Upper-Division
- Physics 100A-B, 105A, 110A, 120A, 130A-B, 140A and an additional
laboratory course from the lab group: 120B, 121, 133.
- Two courses from either the theoretical or experimental pre-grad-school
sequence.
- It is recommended that students take the three quarter astrophysics
sequencePhysics 160, 161, 162but any three courses selected
from the following list are acceptable:
Physics 160. Stellar Astrophysics
Physics 161. Compact Objects and the Milky Way
Physics 162, Galaxies and Cosmology
Physics 163, Solar System
ECE 120, Solar System Physics
Chem. 170, Cosmochemistry
Erth. 130, Geodynamics of Terr. Planets
MAE 180A, Space Science and Engineering 180 A/B
Physics 223, Stellar Structure and Evolution; with consent of Instructor
Physics 224, Interstellar Medium; with consent of Instructor
Physics 226, Galaxies & Galactic Dynamics; with consent of Instructor
Physics 227, Cosmology; with consent of Instructor
Physics 228, High Energy and Compact Objects; with consent of Instructor
Theoretical pre-grad-school sequence: Phys. 100C, 105B, 110B, 130C,
140B
Experimental pre-grad-school sequence: Phys. 100C, 110B, 120B, 130C,
140B
Example Schedule
FALL
|
WINTER
|
SPRING
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys 100A
|
Phys 100B
|
Phys 120A
|
Phys 105A
|
Phys 105B1
|
Phys 130A
|
Phys 110A
|
|
|
|
SENIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys 140A
|
Phys 140B
|
Physics Lab2
|
Phys 160
|
Phys 161
|
Phys 162
|
Phys 130B
|
|
|
|
1 Experimentalists may replace 105B
with an additional lab.
2 Any course from lab group listed
above
Physics Major with Specialization in Biophysics (B.S. Degree)
The Department of Physics offers an undergraduate program that prepares
students for careers in biophysics. This program leads to a degree in
B.S., Physics with Specialization in Biophysics. As a terminal
degree, it is an excellent education for students who wish to work in
the biotechnology industry, and provides an ideal background for students
who plan to attend graduate or professional school in biological or biomedical
fields.
This program is intended for students with a strong interest in bringing
the concepts and technical advances from the physical sciences to bear
on issues in biology. The curriculum is chosen to prepare students as
rigorously trained but broad-minded generalists, so that they may attack
problems in the biological, biochemical, and biomedical sciences with
the tools and confidence that come from rigorous training in the physical
sciences.
The curriculum for Physics Major with Specialization in Biophysics is
designed to allow premedical students to complete all necessary courses
for admission to medical schools.
The lower-division program for physics majors with specialization in
biophysics includes basic courses in biology and chemistry as well as
physics. Although the sequence Physics 4A through 4E is strongly recommended,
students have the choice of petitioning the department to substitute the
sequence Physics 2A through 2D.
The following courses are required for the physics major with specialization
in biophysics:
Lower-Division
- Physics 4A-B-C-D-E and 2CL-DL; or Physics 2A-B-C-D and 2CL-DL (Physics
4 sequence is strongly recommended)
- Chemistry 6A-B-C and 6BL
- Biology, BILD 1 and BILD 2
- Mathematics 20A-B-C-D-E-F
The upper-division program includes advanced courses in physics, including
two core lecture courses and one core laboratory course in biophysics,
as well as organic chemistry.
Upper-Division
- Physics 100A, 105A, 110A, 120A, 130A, 140A, 171, 172, 173
- Chemistry 140A
Additional electives, to achieve a count of twelve upper-division courses
in the major, may be selected from biology, chemistry and physics. Three
additional upper-division courses, in any subject, are required in order
to satisfy UCSD requirements.
Premedical students will need to take two additional quarters of organic
chemistry (Chemistry 140B and 140C), one quarter of organic chemistry
laboratory (Chemistry 143A), and one quarter of an upper level biology
course. In addition, some medical schools also require a quarter of biochemistry
(Biology BIBC 100 or Chemistry 114A). The premedical requirements may
be used to satisfy elective requirements for upper-division courses.
As a guide to prospective students, we consider a schedule of required
classes for a Muir College student.
Suggested Schedule
FALL
|
WINTER
|
SPRING
|
|
FRESHMAN YEAR
|
|
Math. 20A
|
Chem. 6A
|
Chem. 6B
|
|
Math. 20B
|
Chem. 6BL
|
|
Phys. 4A
|
Math. 20C
|
|
|
Phys. 4B
|
|
SOPHOMORE YEAR
|
|
Chem. 6C
|
Math. 20E
|
Math. 20F
|
Math. 20D
|
Phys. 4D
|
Phys. 4E
|
Phys. 4C
|
Phys. 2CL
|
Phys. 2DL
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR
|
|
|
Phys. 100A
|
BILD 1
|
BILD 2
|
Phys. 105A
|
Chem. 140A
|
Phys. 120A
|
Phys. 110A
|
|
Phys. 130A
|
|
SENIOR YEAR
|
|
|
|
Phys. 172
|
|
Phys. 140A
|
Elec.
|
Phys. 173
|
Phys. 171
|
Elec.
|
|
|
B.S. in Physics with Specialization in Computational Physics
The computational physics specialization is designed to support a broad
range of career development tracks, so students may pursue (1) a terminal
B.S. degree for gainful employment in information technology and high-tech
industry, (2) preparation for graduate studies in computational science
with an M.S. degree, and (3) graduate work in physics with strong interest
in computational physics. This flexibility is afforded by a wide array
of restricted electives which allows students to design much of their
own program (subject to advisers approval) while simultaneously
maintaining the essential physics-based curriculum. Academic advising
will be provided by physics faculty in the Computational Physics Specialization
Program to assist students in designing their optimal career development
track in the flexible curriculum.
The following courses are required for Physics Major with Specialization
in Computational Physics:
Lower-Division
- Physics 4A-B-C-D-E or Physics 2A-B-C-D1,
Physics 2CL-DL
- Mathematics 20C-F
- Chemistry 6A
- MAE 9, or MAE 10, or CSE 112
1 The 2A-B-C-D sequence is an allowed
substitute by petition.
2 Electing CSE 11, student is still
required to have C or Fortran based programming skills equivalent to MAE
9, or MAE 10.
Upper-Division
- Physics 100A-B, 105A-B, 110A, 120A, 121, 130A-B, 140A, 141, 142
- Six restricted electives from following groups:
Physics 100C, 110B, 120B, 130C, 131, 140B, other upper division Physics
courses, Mathematics 132A-B, 170A-C, 172, 173, 183 CSE 12, 30, 80
Substitute Upper-Division courses3
Suggested Schedule (restricted electives not shown)
FALL
|
WINTER
|
SPRING
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 100A
|
Phys. 100B
|
Phys. 120A
|
Phys. 105A
|
Phys. 105B
|
Phys. 130A
|
Phys. 110A
|
|
|
|
SENIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 140A
|
Phys. 141
|
Phys. 142
|
Phys. 130B
|
Phys. 121
|
|
|
2 Students will choose two required
courses from the group Phys. 121, Phys. 141, Phys. 142, and either will
drop the third, or take it as one of the six restricted electives
3 Substitute elective courses (upper-division
science, mathematics, engineering, or other) require advisers approval
Career Track Examples with Restricted Electives
The program of electives is intended to be flexible, and can be tailored
to the students needs and interests in consultation with the academic
adviser.
Grad. School Theorist with Computational Interest Track for student with
interest in theoretical physics based computational science:
Physics 100C, 110B, 130C, 140B
Mathematics 132A-B
Grad. School Experimentalist with Computational Interest Track for students
with interest in experimental physics based computational science:
Physics 100C, 120B, 142
Mathematics 183
CSE 80
Information Technology Track for student with interest in physics based
software oriented applications:
Physics 100C, 140B
CSE 12, 30, 80
Mathematics 173
Numerical Science/Engineering Application Developer Track for students
with interest in physics and engineering applications of numerical algorithms:
Physics 100C, 140B
Mathematics 170A-C, 172
High Tech Instrumentation Track for students with interest in physics
based instrumentation:
Physics 100C, 120B, 140B
Mathematics 183
CSE 12, 80
Physics Major with Specialization in Earth Sciences (B.S. Degree)
The upper-division program for physics majors with specialization in
earth sciences is essentially the same as the standard physics major augmented
by courses in earth sciences.
Students may wish to incorporate a small portion of the major program
into their lower-division studies, for example, Earth Sciences 101.
The following courses are required for the physics major with specialization
in earth sciences:
Lower-Division
- Physics 4A-B-C-D-E and 2CL-DL; or Physics 2A-B-C-D and 2CL-DL (Physics
4 sequence is strongly recommended)
- Chemistry 6A-B and 6BL
- Mathematics 20C-F
Upper-Division
- Physics 100A-B, 105A, 110A-B, 120A, 130A, 140A, plus one upper-division
lab*
- Earth Sciences 101, 102, 103, 120
- Restricted Electives: three upper-division earth science (four-unit)
or graduate courses to be chosen with the approval of the SIO earth
sciences adviser
- Two courses from either the theoretical or experimental pre-grad
school sequence.
* Another lab course chosen from Physics 120B, 121, 133, or 173.
Suggested Schedule
FALL
|
WINTER
|
SPRING
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 100A
|
Phys. 100B
|
Phys. 120A
|
Phys. 105A
|
Phys. 110B
|
Phys. 130A
|
Phys. 110A
|
Earth Sci. 102
|
Earth SCI 103
|
Earth SCI 101
|
|
|
|
SENIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 140B
|
Earth SCI 120
|
Restr. Elec
|
Restr. Elec.
|
|
Restr. Elec.
|
|
Physics Major with Specialization in Materials Physics (B.S. Degree)
The materials physics specialization is designed to support a broad range
of options, so students may pursue (1) a terminal B.S. Degree, or preparation
for (2) graduate work in materials science, or (3) graduate work in physics.
This flexibility is afforded by a wide range of restricted electives which
allows students to design much of their own program while simultaneously
maintaining the essential physics-based curriculum. Academic advising
will be provided by the department to assist the student in navigating
through the many options. The B.S. program also serves as the entry to
the integrated five-year B.S./M.S. program.
Lower-Division
- Physics 4A-B-C-D-E or Physics 2A-B-C-D, Physics 2CL-DL
- Chemistry 6A-B*
- Mathematics 20C-F
- MAE 9 or MAE 10 (or equivalent programming experience)
Upper-Division
- Physics 100A-B, 105A-B, 110A, 120A-B, 130A-B, 140A, 133, 152A-B
- Four restricted electives, to be chosen from Chemistry 120A-B*; Mathematics
120A; ECE 103, 134, 135A-B, 136, 136L; MAE 160, 110A; or any upper division
physics course
* Students who anticipate taking Chemistry 120A-B as an upper-division
elective are strongly advised to take Chemistry 6C.
Suggested Schedule (restricted electives not shown)
FALL
|
WINTER
|
SPRING
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 100A
|
Phys. 100B
|
Phys. 120A
|
Phys. 105A
|
Phys. 105B
|
Phys. 130A
|
Phys. 110A
|
|
|
|
SENIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 140A
|
Phys. 152A
|
Phys. 152B
|
Phys. 120B
|
|
Phys. 133
|
Phys. 130B
|
|
|
|
Restricted Electives: Example
As examples of restricted electives, a student opting for a terminal
B.S. Degree (Option 1) might choose to take MAE 160, ECE 103, 136, and
Physics 121. Students preparing for graduate work in materials science
(Option 2) might consider MAE 160, ECE 103, 134, and a fourth elective.
Students preparing for graduate work in physics (Option 3) might consider
Physics 100C, 110B, 140B, and a fourth elective. The program of electives
is intended to be flexible, and can be tailored to the students
needs and interests in consultation with the academic adviser.
See entry for Integrated Bachelors/Masters Degree Program
in Materials Physics.
General Physics Major (B.A. Degree)
This program covers the essential topics in physics and provides a broadly
based education in the natural sciences. Starting with lower-division
courses in mathematics, physics, computing, biology and/or chemistry,
students proceed to upper-division mechanics, electricity and magnetism,
thermal physics, quantum physics, and a physical measurements laboratory
course. In addition, students take sixteen units of upper-division elective
courses in the natural sciences or mathematics.
While the B.A. Program is suitable for students who pursue a terminal
degree in physics or use it as a preparation for other professional careers,
it is not intended for those who wish to proceed to the Ph.D. In physics.
The latter should enroll in the B.S. Program
The following courses are required for the general physics major:
Lower-Division
- Physics 2A-B-C-D and 2CL-DL
- Mathematics 20C-F
- Three restrictive elective courses in science and engineering (a
list of acceptable courses is given below)
Upper-Division
- Physics 100A-B, 105A, 110A-B, 120A, 130A, 140A or Chemistry 127 or
131
- Restricted Electives: Sixteen units of upper-division courses in
science and engineering (excluding mathematics)
Suggested Schedule
FALL
|
WINTER
|
SPRING
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 100A
|
Phys. 100B
|
Phys. 120A
|
Phys. 105A
|
Phys. 110B
|
Phys. 130A
|
Phys. 110A
|
|
|
|
SENIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 140A or
|
Restr. Elec
|
Restr. Elec.
|
Chem. 127 or 131
|
Restr. Elec.
|
|
Restr. Elec.
|
|
|
|
Approved Lower-Division Elective Courses
One course in computing chosen from the following list:
MAE 10, FORTRAN for Engineers
MAE 03, Introduction to Engineering Graphics and Design
CSE 10, Introduction to Programming Techniques
CSE 30, Introduction to Systems Programming
Physics 105B, Mathematical and Computational Physics
Plus two of the following courses:
BILD 1, The Cell
BILD 2, Multicellular Life
BILD 3, Organismic and Evolutionary Biology
Chem. 6A, General Chemistry
Chem. 6B, General Chemistry
Chem. 6C, General Chemistry
Chem. 6BL plus 6CL, General Chemistry Lab plus Intro. Analytical Chemistry
General Physics/Secondary Education Major (B.A. Degree)
This program is intended for students preparing for a career as a physics
teacher in secondary schools. It covers the essential topics in physics
and provides a broadly based education in the natural sciences. The program
includes three courses in general chemistry plus a lab, one course in
organic chemistry plus a lab, and a course in earth science as required
by the Single Subject Credential Program of the state of California. It
also includes three courses in Practicum in Learning offered by the Teacher
Education Program. This degree is particularly suitable for students pursuing
a Single Subject (Physics) credential for high schools. If you are interested
in earning a California teaching credential from UCSD, contact the Teacher
Education Program (TEP) for information about the prerequisite and professional
preparation requirements. It is recommended that you contact TEP as early
as possible in your academic career.
The following courses are required for the general physics/secondary
education major:
Lower-Division
- Physics 2A-B-C-D and 2CL-DL
- Chemistry 6A-B-C and 6BL
- Earth Sciences 10, 12, 30
- Mathematics 20C-F
Upper-Division
- Physics 100A-B, 105A, 110A-B, 120A, 130A
- Chemistry 140A and 143A
- Earth Sciences 101
- TEP 129A-B-C
Suggested Schedule
FALL
|
WINTER
|
SPRING
|
|
JUNIOR YEAR
|
|
Phys. 100A
|
Phys. 100B
|
Phys. 130A
|
Phys. 105A
|
Phys. 110B
|
Phys. 120A
|
Phys. 110A
|
Chem. 140A
|
Chem. 143A
|
|
SENIOR YEAR
|
|
Earth SCI 101
|
TEP 129B
|
TEP 129C
|
TEP 129A
|
|
|
|
Engineering Physics Program
The engineering physics program is offered jointly by the Departments
of Physics, MAE, and ECE, and is administered by the Department of ECE.
(See ECE, Engineering Physics Program.) Transfer students
who have had prior course work in the major at other institutions must
consult with the Department of Physics, Student Affairs Office, 1110-115
Urey Hall Addition to make an appointment to see a faculty adviser.
Minor in Physics
Students may arrange minor programs or programs of concentration in physics
by consulting with the Department of Physics Student Affairs Office, 1110-115
Urey Hall Addition, and their college for specific requirements. The Department
of Physics requires at least twenty-eight units, of which at least twenty
units must be upper-division. All courses must be taken for a letter grade.
Lower-division transfer courses are permitted.
Advising Office
All students are assigned an academic adviser. It is strongly recommended
students see their adviser at least once a quarter.
Additional advising information may be obtained from the Department of
Physics Student Affairs Office, 1110-115 Urey Hall Addition (858) 534-3290.
Honors Program
The Department of Physics offers an Honors Program for students who demonstrate
excellence in the major. Students interested in the Honors Program should
consult the Student Affairs Office. Eligibility for the Honors Program
includes completion of all required lower-division physics courses, ten
upper-division physics courses, and a GPA of a least 3.50 in the physics
major.
The Honors Program consists of a minimum of eight units of Honors Thesis
Research (Physics 199H), an Honors Thesis, and the presentation of the
research to faculty and peers at UCSDs Undergraduate Research Conference
or an Undergraduate Seminar. Admission to the Honors Program is contingent
upon the prior approval of the Honors Thesis research topic
by the Vice Chair for Education.
Integrated Bachelors/Masters Degree Program in Materials
Physics
The program offers a M.S. in physics with specialization in materials
physics. It is open only to UCSD undergraduates, and is a Plan I program
only (thesis). During the fourth quarter prior to receipt of the B.S.
Degree, students enrolled in the B.S. Degree program with specialization
in materials physics (see above) may apply for admission to the M.S. program.
To be eligible, students must have completed the first two quarters of
their junior year in residence at UCSD and have a GPA of at least 3.0
in both their major and overall undergraduate curriculum. It is strongly
recommended that B.S. students who intend to apply to the M.S. program take
MAE 160, ECE 103, and ECE 134 as restricted B.S. electives. It is the
responsibility of the prospective B.S./M.S. student to select a faculty
member (from the Department of Physics or, with physics department approval,
from the MAE, ECE, or chemistry departments) who would be willing to serve
as the students adviser and with whom the student would complete
at least twelve units of S/U graded research, which could commence as
early as the undergraduate senior year. (Taken during the senior year,
the units would count only toward the M.S. degree and not toward the B.S.)
The student must confirm that the selected faculty adviser will not be
on off-campus sabbatical leave during any quarter of the scheduled B.S./M.S.
project. Students are expected to meet the requirements for the M.S. degree
in one year (three consecutive, contiguous academic quarters) from the
date of receipt of the B.S. Degree Any deviation from this plan, such
as a break in enrollment for one or more quarters, may result in the student
being dropped from the program.
The requirements for the M.S. degree are as follows:
- Completion of at least twelve and no more than twenty-four units
of research, which may begin as early as the first quarter of the senior
undergraduate year.
- Completion of three required courses during the fifth (graduate)
year (MAT SCI 201A-B-C), and two restricted electives (see below).
- Completion of restricted elective courses so that the total number
of units (research plus required courses plus elective courses) totals
no less than 36 units taken as a graduate student. Students accumulate
units for their research by enrolling in Physics 295 (M.S. Thesis Research),
which may be taken repeatedly.
- Maintenance of a grade-point average of at least 3.0 for all course
work, both cumulatively and for each quarter of enrollment in the B.S./M.S.
program.
- Completion of a thesis, with an oral presentation to, and approval
of, a three-member committee from the Department of Physics including
the faculty adviser. If the faculty adviser is from outside the physics
department, the committee shall consist of the adviser and two members
from the physics department faculty.
- Three complete, separate, and consecutive quarters of full-time residency
as a graduate student which will commence the quarter immediately following
the quarter in which the B.S. Degree is awarded (not counting summer
session).
- Although students may receive research or teaching assistantships
if available from their adviser or through the Department of Physics,
there is no guarantee of financial support associated with the M.S. program.
- M.S. candidates will be permitted to serve as teaching assistants,
although teaching will not be a requirement for the degree. Students
who obtain a teaching assistantship should make sure that it does not
interfere with completion of the M.S. degree requirements within the one
year time frame allotted.
M.S. Program: Fifth Year Curriculum
- MAT SCI 201A-B-C
- Physics 295 (M.S. Thesis Research)
- Two restricted electives, to be chosen from Physics 201, 211A-B;
MAT SCI 227, 240A-B-C; ECE 231, 233: other courses allowed by petition
The Graduate Program
The Department of Physics offers curricula leading to the following degrees:
M.S., Physics
C.Phil., Physics
Ph.D., Physics
Ph.D., Physics (Biophysics)
Biophysics students will receive their M.S. and C.Phil. degrees in physics.
Only their Ph.D. will be in physics (biophysics).
Entering graduate students are required to have a sound knowledge of
undergraduate mechanics, electricity and magnetism; to have had senior
courses or their equivalent in atomic and quantum physics, nuclear physics,
and thermodynamics; and to have taken upper-division laboratory work.
An introductory course in solid-state physics is desirable.
Requirements for the master of science degree can be met according to
Plan II (comprehensive examination). (See Graduate Studies: The
Masters Degree.) The comprehensive examination is identical
to the first-year departmental examination for Ph.D. Students A list of
acceptable courses is available in the Department of Physics Graduate
Student Affairs office. There is no foreign language requirement.
Doctoral Degree Program
The department has developed a flexible Ph.D. Program which provides
a broad, advanced education in physics while at the same time giving students
opportunity for emphasizing their special interests. This program consists
of graduate courses, apprenticeship in research, teaching experience,
and thesis research.
Entering students are assigned a faculty adviser to guide them in their
program. Many students spend their first year as teaching assistants or
fellows and begin apprentice research in their second year. When a students
association with a research area and research supervisor is well established,
a faculty research progress committee is formed with the responsibility
of conducting an annual review of progress and, at the appropriate time,
initiating the formation of a doctoral committee. After three years of
graduate study, or earlier, students complete the departmental examinations
and begin thesis research. Students specializing in biophysics make up
deficiencies in biology and chemistry during the first two years and complete
the departmental examinations by the end of their third year of graduate
study. There is no foreign language requirement.
Entrance Testing
An entrance test covering undergraduate physics is given to entering
students during the first week of orientation to give better guidance
to students in their graduate program. The results are not entered in
the students file. Entering students are encouraged, but not obliged,
to bring the results to the first meeting with their academic adviser.
Entering students may elect to take the departmental examination instead
of taking the entrance test.
Requirements for the Ph.D.
Students are required to pass a departmental examination, advanced graduate
courses, a qualifying examination, teaching requirement and a final defense
of the thesis as described below.
1. Departmental Examination
Physics students are required to take the departmental examination after
completing one year of graduate work at UCSD. The examination is on the
level of material usually covered in upper-division courses and the graduate
courses listed below:
Fall
Physics 200A (Theoretical Mechanics)
Physics 201 (Mathematical Physics)
Physics 212A (Quantum Mechanics)
Winter
Physics 200B (Theoretical Mechanics)
Physics 203A (Adv. Classical Electrodynamics)
Physics 212B (Quantum Mechanics)
Spring
Physics 203B (Adv. Classical Electrodynamics)
Physics 210A (Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics)
Physics 212C (Quantum Mechanics)
The examination is offered twice a year, at the beginning of the fall
and spring quarters, and lasts two days, four hours per day. The examination
may be repeated once, the next time it is offered.
Biophysics students take the departmental examination after completing
two years of graduate work.
2. Advanced Graduate Courses
Physics students are required to take five advanced graduate courses
(with a grade of C or better) from at least three of the groups listed
below no later than the end of the third year of graduate work. A 3.0
average in four of the five courses is required. (In lieu of the course
requirement, students may petition to take an oral examination covering
three areas of physics.)
Group 1: Physics 218A-B-C (Plasma); 234 (Nonneutral Plas.); 235 (Nonlin.
Plas. Th.)
Group 2: Physics 210B (Nonequil. Stat. Mech.); 210C, 211A, 211B (Solid
State); 219 (C.M./Matl. SCI Lab), 230 (Adv. Solid State); 232 (Electronic
Materials); 236 (Many-body Th.)
Group 3: Physics 214 (Elem. Part.); 215A-B-C (Part. & Fields); 217
(Renorm. Field Th.); 222 (Exp. Tech. Part. Phys.)
Group 4: Physics 220 (Group Th.); 221A, 221B (Nonlinear Dyn.); Mathematics
210A-B, 210C (Mathematics Physics); Mathematics 259A-B-C (Geom. Physics)
Group 5: Physics 206 (BioPhysics); Physics 207 (X-ray Crystallography);
225A-B (Relativ.); 271 (Bio. Neurons/Net); 272 (Bio. Molecules)
Group 6: Physics 223 (Stel. Str.); 224 (Intrstel. Med.); 226 (Gal. &
Gal. Dyn.); 227 (Cosmology), 228 (HE Astro. & Comp. Obj.)
Biophysics students select five courses from biology, biochemistry, chemistry,
or physics in consultation with their adviser. At least three courses
must be graduate courses.
3. Qualifying Examination and Advancement to Candidacy
In order to be advanced to candidacy, students must have met the departmental
requirements and obtained a faculty research supervisor. At the time of
application for advancement to candidacy, a doctoral committee responsible
for the remainder of the students graduate program is appointed
by the Graduate Council. The committee conducts the Ph.D. qualifying examination
during which students must demonstrate the ability to engage in thesis
research. Usually this involves the presentation of a plan for the thesis
research project. The committee may ask questions directly or indirectly
related to the project and questions on general physics which it determines
to be relevant. Upon successful completion of this examination, students
are advanced to candidacy and are awarded the Candidate of Philosophy
degree.
4. Instruction in Physics Teaching
All graduate students are required to participate in the physics undergraduate
teaching program as part of their career training. The main component
of this requirement is an evaluated classroom-based teaching activity.
All graduate student teaching accomplishments are subject to the approval
of the vice chair for education. There are several ways to satisfying
the teaching requirement, including: (1) leading discussions as a teaching
assistant, (2) practical classroom teaching, under faculty supervision,
(3) participation in an approved teaching development program offered
by the Department of Physics or the campus Center for Teaching Development,
or (4) transferred teaching credit from another institution or department.
Students who satisfy the requirement by teaching at UCSD should enroll
in Physics 500 during the quarter in which they complete it.
5. Thesis Defense
When students have completed their theses, they are asked to present
and defend them before their doctoral committees.
Time Limits for Progress to the Ph.D.
In accordance with university policy, the Department of Physics has established
the following time limits for progress to the Ph.D. A students research
progress committee helps ensure that these time limits are met.
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Theorists
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Experimentalists
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Advancement to Candidacy
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4 years
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5 years
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Total Registered Time and Support
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7 years
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8 years
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Departmental Colloquium
The department offers a weekly colloquium on topics of current interest
in physics and on departmental research programs. Students are expected
to register and attend the colloquium.
Supplementary Course Work and Seminars
The department offers regular seminars in several areas of current interest.
Students are strongly urged to enroll for credit in seminars related to
their research interests and, when appropriate, to enroll in advanced
graduate courses beyond the departmental requirement. To help beginning
students choose a research area and a research supervisor, the department
offers a special seminar (Physics 261) that surveys physics research at
UCSD.
Course Credit by Examination
Students have an option of obtaining credit for a physics graduate course
by taking the final examination without participating in any class exercises.
They must, however, officially register for the course and notify the
instructor and the Department of Physics graduate student affairs office
of their intention no later than the first week of the course.
Physics
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