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, and Fermi Laboratory. The astrophysics
program uses facilities at Keck, Lick, 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, 140B, 173, 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 101 |
|
|
|
SENIOR YEAR |
|
Phys. 140B |
Earth SCI 120 |
U.D. Lab |
Earth SCI 103 |
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, or 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.); 229 (App. Quant. Mech.)
Group 4: Physics 220 (Group Th.); 221A, 221B (Nonlinear Dyn.);
Physics 241 and 242 (Comp. Phys); Mathematics 210A-B, 210C (Mathematics
Physics); Mathematics 259A-B-C (Geom. Physics)
Group 5: Physics 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.
|
Theorists |
Experimentalists |
Advancement to Candidacy |
4 years |
5 years |
Total Registered Time
and Support |
7 years |
8 years |
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
|