Options in Physics
The Physics major is prepared for further study in graduate physics and related areas such as oceanography, geophysics, patent law, medicine, engineering and astronomy. The specific goal for majors is a thorough knowledge of basic physical science and the mathematical experimental application of this basis is to the study of natural phenomena. Other offerings are intended to give non-science majors an appreciation of the relation between science and the world they live in.
As a physics major, students are invited to join the Society of Physics Students (SPS), a national student association of physics majors. The SPS offers opportunities for technical tours, lectures and social activities. Members of this group attend meetings, present papers, sponsor visiting speakers and recently toured the Laser Energetics Lab at the University of Rochester.
Physics majors have access to departmental micro-computers (IBM and MacIntosh). In addition, a large variety of equipment is available for students to use as early as their first semester. After their freshman year, Physics majors have the opportunity to use a scanning tunneling microscope, high resolution spectroscopy equipment, lasers, fiber optics, high vacuum apparatus, low temperature apparatus, a multi-channel nuclear analyzer and an X-ray spectrometer among other pieces of equipment.
Students who wish to combine the mathematical and analytical strengths of physics with another major can pursue a minor in physics. And students who plan to transfer to an engineering degree program after two years should explore Canisius' Pre-engineering program.