Mission Statement
The Department of Physics offers all major undergraduate courses in physics required to complete a degree in Physics. The degrees offered are B.S. in Physics and B.S. in Physics with Secondary Education. The Department also offers a minor in Physics, Associates of Arts Degree in Pre-Engineering Physics, and Dual Degree Programs with partner institutions to pursue careers in Physics and Engineering. Physics majors seeking interdisciplinary careers in the Biomedical fields, Law, Technology, etc. are advised to choose appropriate minors from Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Pre-Med, or Pre-Law.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completing coursework in physics, students will demonstrate comprehensive understanding of fundamental principles and their applications across diverse fields of study and professional practice.
Students will acquire an overview of the major areas of classical and modern physics.
Students will learn the fundamental concepts and laws of physics, their interrelationships and various applications.
Academic Programs
The Department offers comprehensive programs in physics, from associate degrees to bachelor's degrees with various emphases to meet your career goals in physics, engineering, and education.
Physics, B.S.
Comprehensive program covering classical and modern physics, including mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, optics, and quantum physics. Prepares students for careers in research, industry, and graduate study.
Physics Minor
The Physics Minor is designed for students pursuing other majors who wish to enhance their analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills through the study of physics.
Physics, A.A.
Two-year associate degree providing foundational knowledge in physics and mathematics, designed for students planning to transfer to engineering programs.
3+2 Dual Degree Program
Three years at Tougaloo followed by two years at a partner engineering institution, resulting in both a physics degree and an engineering degree.
Career Opportunities
Our physics graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths in research, education, technology, and industry. The analytical and problem-solving skills developed in physics are highly valued across many sectors.
Research & Academia
- Research Physicist
- University Professor
- Laboratory Scientist
- Postdoctoral Researcher
- Government Research Scientist
- National Lab Researcher
- Industrial Research Scientist
- Theoretical Physicist
Engineering & Technology
- Engineering Physicist
- Optical Engineer
- Electronics Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Product Development Engineer
- Technical Consultant
- Patent Examiner
- Quality Control Specialist
Education & Outreach
- High School Physics Teacher
- Science Educator
- Curriculum Developer
- Science Museum Educator
- Educational Technology Specialist
- Science Writer
- Academic Administrator
- STEM Outreach Coordinator
Industry Applications
- Medical Physicist
- Data Scientist
- Financial Analyst
- Software Developer
- Technical Sales Engineer
- Project Manager
- Aerospace Scientist
- Energy Analyst
Academic Programs
Our department offers comprehensive programs designed to provide students with strong foundations in classical and modern physics, mathematical methods, and experimental techniques.
Choose from our degree programs, each tailored to specific career goals and academic interests:
Physics, B.S.
Required Courses (55 Credit Hours)
This course serves to introduce potential STEM majors to all of the disciplines housed within the School of Natural Sciences. Through team-teaching, students will be exposed to the fundamental concepts and applications of computer science, mathematics, chemistry, physics, and biology.
CREDIT: 2 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
This one-semester course will employ calculus in the study of key components of Newtonian Mechanics including Fluid Mechanics and Gravitation. Offered every spring.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 221 or PHY 111
This one-semester course will employ calculus in the study of Oscillations and Waves, Electricity, and Magnetism. Offered every fall.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 222 and PHY 223
This one-semester course sequence will cover the analysis of Thermodynamics, Optics, and Quantum Physics at a basic foundational level using algebra and calculus. Offered every spring.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
These courses provide a one-year sequence covering Newtonian mechanics in one, two and three dimensions, non-inertial reference systems, central forces, systems of particles, rigid bodies, oscillating systems, and Lagrange's and Hamilton's equations.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
Continuation of PHY 347. Advanced topics in classical mechanics including Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 347
These courses provide a one year sequence covering electric and magnetic fields in vacuum and in matter, Maxwell's equations, electric and magnetic energy, boundary-value problems, electromagnetic waves in media.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
Continuation of PHY 357. Advanced electromagnetic theory including Maxwell's equations and electromagnetic wave propagation.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 357
These courses provide a one-year sequence in contemporary physics introducing such topics as special relativity, quantum mechanics, atomic physics, molecular physics, solid state physics and nuclear physics.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
Continuation of PHY 465. Advanced topics in quantum mechanics, atomic and nuclear physics.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 465
This course is a study of real numbers, functions, limits continuity, differentiation, application of derivative, Rolle's Theorem, Mean Value Theorem, anti-derivatives, the definite integral.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 104 or MAT 105 with a minimum grade of "C"
The fundamental Theorem of Calculus, areas, volumes, arc lengths, work, and pressure are examined in this course. Transcendental function, methods of integration, numerical methods, indeterminate forms, Taylor Polynomials, sequences, series.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 221 with minimum grade of "C"
This course examines polar coordinates, parametric equations, arc lengths, vector calculus, curvature, surface area, functions of several variables, partial derivative, gradient.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 222 with a minimum grade of "C"
This course explores multiple integration, centroids, moment of inertia, line integrals, Stokes' and Green's Theorems.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 321 with a minimum grade of "C"
This course examines the first order differential equations, linear equations of higher order, power series solutions of linear equations, Laplace transform and linear systems of differential equations.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 321 with a grade of at least "C"
These are introductory courses in the principles of chemistry. Topics include the mole concept, stoichiometry, states of matter, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, equilibria, kinetics, acid-base reactions, and oxidation-reduction reactions.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): Math ACT score 20 or CHE 104 with a grade of C
Corequisite(s): CHE 117, MAT 103 or MAT 104 or MAT 221
These are introductory laboratory courses to demonstrate, clarify, and develop experimentally the principles of chemistry taught in CHE 115-CHE 116.
CREDIT: 1 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Corequisite(s): CHE 115
Continuation of CHE 115. Advanced topics in general chemistry.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): CHE 115 with grade of C
Corequisite(s): MAT 104 or MAT 221 and CHE 118
Laboratory course accompanying CHE 116.
CREDIT: 1 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Corequisite(s): CHE 116
Required Electives (3-4 Credit Hours)
Students must take at least three hours from the following courses:
This course will use vector algebra and calculus to analyze equilibrium conditions of point and extended objects with joints and supports acted upon by multiple or distributed forces.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 223 and MAT 222
This is an introductory course in electrical circuits and electronics, designed for students majoring in any of the natural sciences.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224 or PHY 124
This course provides selected experiments in classical and modern physics, requiring comprehensive written laboratory reports.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
This is a course extending the treatment of quantum mechanics began in PHY 465. Topics include wave mechanics, Schrodinger equation applications, matrix mechanics, hydrogen atom, angular momentum, perturbation theory.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 465
These courses provide the opportunity to pursue a research problem in Physics. The student, in consultation with the instructor, will select appropriate literature and/or apparatus.
CREDIT: To Be Arranged
Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor and Department Chairperson
These courses provide the opportunity to pursue a research problem in Physics. The student, in consultation with the instructor, will select appropriate literature and/or apparatus.
CREDIT: To Be Arranged
Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor and Department Chairperson
Topics not covered, or introduced only briefly in other courses, are elected by the instructor and students. Possible topics include astrophysics, solid state physics, classical or quantum optics, statistical or thermal physics.
CREDIT: To Be Arranged
Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor
Topics not covered, or introduced only briefly in other courses, are elected by the instructor and students. Possible topics include astrophysics, solid state physics, classical or quantum optics, statistical or thermal physics.
CREDIT: To Be Arranged
Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor
Physics, A.A.
Recognizing the diversified needs and applications of Physics in Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Education, Engineering, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence etc., the Physics program offers a diversified curriculum. Students enrolled in the Associate of Arts program will graduate with both General Education credits and credits in the sciences, for a total of 67 hours. When selected appropriately, all courses are transferrable to the Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics at Tougaloo College.
Required Courses (31 Credit Hours)
The trigonometric functions: formulas, theorems, solving equations, and applications will be developed.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 103 with a grade of "C" or qualifying placement test score
This course focuses on preparing students for the Physics course sequence. Topics covered are scientific notations and symbols, physical parameters/observables, their functional dependencies, forces and vectors, work and energy, integration principles and other analytical tools.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 103
Corequisite(s): MAT 104
This one-semester course will employ calculus in the study of key components of Newtonian Mechanics including Fluid Mechanics and Gravitation.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 221 or PHY 111
This one-semester course will employ calculus in the study of Oscillations and Waves, Electricity, and Magnetism.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 222 and PHY 223
This course will cover the analysis of Thermodynamics, Optics, and Quantum Physics at a basic foundational level using algebra and calculus.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
This course is a study of real numbers, functions, limits continuity, differentiation, application of derivative, Rolle's Theorem, Mean Value Theorem, anti-derivatives, the definite integral.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 104 or MAT 105 with a minimum grade of "C"
The fundamental Theorem of Calculus, areas, volumes, arc lengths, work, and pressure are examined in this course.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 221 with minimum grade of "C"
These are introductory courses in the principles of chemistry. Topics include the mole concept, stoichiometry, states of matter, thermodynamics, chemical bonding.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): Math ACT score 20 or CHE 104 with a grade of C
These are introductory laboratory courses to demonstrate, clarify, and develop experimentally the principles of chemistry.
CREDIT: 1 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Corequisite(s): CHE 115
Students must select an additional elective course in mathematics, computer science, physics, engineering mechanics, or research.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
3+2 Dual Degree Program in Physics and Engineering
This program allows students to spend three years at Tougaloo College followed by two years at a partner engineering institution. Students receive both a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Tougaloo and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the partner institution.
Suggested Course Sequence
First Year
This course is a study of real numbers, functions, limits continuity, differentiation, application of derivative, Rolle’s Theorem, Mean Value Theorem, anti-derivatives, the definite integral. Offered every semester.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 104 or MAT 105 with a minimum grade of “C.”
This one-semester course will employ calculus in the study of key components of Newtonian Mechanics including Fluid Mechanics and Gravitation. Offered every spring. Three hours of lecture and problem solving per week. Three-hour laboratory period per week.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 221 or PHY 111
These are introductory courses in the principles of chemistry. Topics include the mole concept, stoichiometry, states of matter, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, equilibria, kinetics, acid-base reactions, and oxidation-reduction reactions.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): Math ACT score 20 or CHE 104 with a grade of C
Corequisite(s): CHE 117, MAT 103 or MAT 104 or MAT 221
These are introductory laboratory courses to demonstrate, clarify, and develop experimentally the principles of chemistry taught in CHE 115-CHE 116. One three-hour laboratory per week.
CREDIT: 1 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Corequisite(s): CHE 115
The fundamental Theorem of Calculus, areas, volumes, arc lengths, work, and pressure are examined in this course. Transcendental function, methods of integration, numerical methods, indeterminate forms, Taylor Polynomials, sequences, series. Offered every semester.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 221 with minimum grade of “C.”
This one-semester course will employ calculus in the study of Oscillations and Waves, Electricity, and Magnetism. Offered every fall. Three hours of lecture and problem solving per week. Three-hour laboratory period per week.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 222 and PHY 223
These are introductory courses in the principles of chemistry. Topics include the mole concept, stoichiometry, states of matter, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, equilibria, kinetics, acid-base reactions, and oxidation-reduction reactions.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): CHE 115 with grade of C
Corequisite(s): MAT 104 or MAT 221 and CHE 118
These are introductory laboratory courses to demonstrate, clarify, and develop experimentally the principles of chemistry taught in CHE 115-CHE 116. One three-hour laboratory per week.
CREDIT: 1 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Corequisite(s): CHE 116
Second Year
This one-semester course sequence will cover the analysis of Thermodynamics, Optics, and Quantum Physics at a basic foundational level using algebra and calculus. Offered every spring. Three hours of lecture and problem solving per week. Three-hour laboratory period per week.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
This course examines polar coordinates, parametric equations, arc lengths, vector calculus, curvature, surface area, functions of several variables, partial derivative, gradient. Offered every fall.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 222 with a minimum grade of “C.”
These courses provide a one-year sequence covering Newtonian mechanics in one, two and three dimensions, non-inertial reference systems, central forces, systems of particles, rigid bodies, oscillating systems, and Lagrange’s and Hamilton’s equations. Three hours of lecture and problem solving per week.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
This course explores multiple integration, centroids, moment of inertia, line integrals, Stokes’ and Green’s Theorems. Offered every spring.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 321 with a minimum grade of “C.”
These courses provide a one-year sequence covering Newtonian mechanics in one, two and three dimensions, non-inertial reference systems, central forces, systems of particles, rigid bodies, oscillating systems, and Lagrange’s and Hamilton’s equations. Three hours of lecture and problem solving per week.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
This course examines the first order differential equations, linear equations of higher order, power series solutions of linear equations, Laplace transform and linear systems of differential equations. If time permits, an introduction to partial differential equations. Offered every spring.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 321 with a grade of at least “C.”
Third Year
These courses provide a one-year sequence covering electric and magnetic fields in vacuum and in matter, Maxwell’s equations, electric and magnetic energy, boundary-value problems, electromagnetic waves in media. Three hours of lecture and problem solving per week.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
These courses provide a one-year sequence in contemporary physics introducing such topics as special relativity, quantum mechanics, atomic physics, molecular physics, solid state physics and nuclear physics, with a fair degree of mathematical sophistication. Three hours of lecture and problem solving per week.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
This course is a prerequisite for students transferring to Engineering Schools for Aerospace, Chemical, Civil, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering degrees. The course will use vector algebra and calculus to analyze equilibrium conditions of point and extended objects with joints and supports acted upon by multiple or distributed forces. Specifically, this course will examine the equilibrium of structures in two and three dimensions. Offered every spring.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 223 and MAT 222
These courses provide a one-year sequence covering electric and magnetic fields in vacuum and in matter, Maxwell’s equations, electric and magnetic energy, boundary-value problems, electromagnetic waves in media. Three hours of lecture and problem solving per week.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
These courses provide a one-year sequence in contemporary physics introducing such topics as special relativity, quantum mechanics, atomic physics, molecular physics, solid state physics and nuclear physics, with a fair degree of mathematical sophistication. Three hours of lecture and problem solving per week.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Years 4-5: Students transfer to partner engineering institution to complete engineering degree requirements.
Physics Minor
The Physics minor is open to all students that fulfill the requirements listed below. This minor provides valuable quantitative and analytical skills for students in other disciplines.
Required Courses (18 Credit Hours)
This one-semester course will employ calculus in the study of key components of Newtonian Mechanics including Fluid Mechanics and Gravitation.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 221 or PHY 111
This course is a study of real numbers, functions, limits continuity, differentiation, application of derivative, Rolle's Theorem, Mean Value Theorem, anti-derivatives, the definite integral.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 104 or MAT 105 with a minimum grade of "C"
This one-semester course will employ calculus in the study of Oscillations and Waves, Electricity, and Magnetism.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 222 and PHY 223
The fundamental Theorem of Calculus, areas, volumes, arc lengths, work, and pressure are examined in this course.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): MAT 221 with minimum grade of "C"
This course will cover the analysis of Thermodynamics, Optics, and Quantum Physics at a basic foundational level using algebra and calculus.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
Choose Six Credits from the Following:
This course will use vector algebra and calculus to analyze equilibrium conditions of point and extended objects.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 223 and MAT 222
This is an introductory course in electrical circuits and electronics, designed for students majoring in any of the natural sciences.
CREDIT: 4 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224 or PHY 124
These courses provide a one-year sequence covering Newtonian mechanics in one, two and three dimensions, non-inertial reference systems, central forces, systems of particles, rigid bodies, oscillating systems.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S) each
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
These courses provide a one-year sequence covering Newtonian mechanics in one, two and three dimensions, non-inertial reference systems, central forces, systems of particles, rigid bodies, oscillating systems.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S) each
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
These courses provide a one year sequence covering electric and magnetic fields in vacuum and in matter, Maxwell's equations, electric and magnetic energy, boundary-value problems.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S) each
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
These courses provide a one year sequence covering electric and magnetic fields in vacuum and in matter, Maxwell's equations, electric and magnetic energy, boundary-value problems.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S) each
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
These courses provide a one-year sequence in contemporary physics introducing such topics as special relativity, quantum mechanics, atomic physics, molecular physics, solid state physics and nuclear physics.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S) each
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
These courses provide a one-year sequence in contemporary physics introducing such topics as special relativity, quantum mechanics, atomic physics, molecular physics, solid state physics and nuclear physics.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S) each
Prerequisite(s): PHY 224
Topics not covered, or introduced only briefly in other courses, are elected by the instructor and students. Possible topics include astrophysics, solid state physics, classical or quantum optics, statistical or thermal physics.
CREDIT: To Be Arranged
Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor
Topics not covered, or introduced only briefly in other courses, are elected by the instructor and students. Possible topics include astrophysics, solid state physics, classical or quantum optics, statistical or thermal physics.
CREDIT: To Be Arranged
Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor
This is a course extending the treatment of quantum mechanics. Topics include wave mechanics, various applications of Schrodinger equation, matrix mechanics, the hydrogen atom, angular momentum, perturbation theory.
CREDIT: 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)
Prerequisite(s): PHY 465
These courses provide the opportunity to pursue a research problem in Physics. The student, in consultation with the instructor, will select appropriate literature and/or apparatus.
CREDIT: To Be Arranged
Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor and Department Chairperson
Explore the Universe Through Physics
Join a department that combines theoretical understanding with practical applications. Whether you're interested in classical physics, quantum mechanics, or engineering applications, our programs prepare you for success in research, education, and industry.