Physics

Students, when they first encounter the subject known as physics, might experience thoughts similar to Alice’s (Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland) as she pondered the meaning of the poem Jabberwocky. Alice commented, “It seems very pretty but, it’s rather hard to understand. Somehow it fills my head with ideas — only I don’t exactly know what they are!” Although the concepts studied in physics may, at times, be a little troublesome, the pleasure it gives can more than compensate for its difficulty. Physics is considered to be a difficult subject because it uses a specific language — mathematics — that does not lend itself to the expression of nebulous or imprecise thoughts. It is this language that can ensure comprehension of the material being studied. Since one can demonstrate proficiency in this subject, students can expect high grades if they are diligent. The importance of physics in all of our lives cannot be overstressed. One thousand years from now, when one is asked to list the most important events of the 20th century, the discoveries of physics will top the list. To not include a little physics in your intellectual diet may leave you mentally undernourished.

Physics major

This section specifies the Physics major discipline requirements only. See the Bachelor of Science section for additional requirements, and to the appropriate pages for the chosen major or minor.

Lower-level requirements

Upper-level requirements

Plus:

Twenty-seven upper-level physics credits that are to be selected from courses listed in the Course descriptions section. Students may transfer up to 15 upper-level physics credits from approved courses taken outside UCFV.

Physics minor

This section specifies the physics minor requirements only. See the Bachelor of Science section for additional requirements. In addition to the General BSc requirements, students must complete a minimum of 14 credits from physics courses numbered 300 and above. Students need to combine these physics minor requirements with the credits earned from another science minor or major.

Note: Students must be aware that upper-level physics courses require lower-level physics and math prerequisites. Students are advised to take these lower-level prerequisites in their first two years of full-time study.

Upper-level requirements

Faculty

Peter Mulhern, BSc (Hons) (SFU), MSc, PhD (UBC), Department Head
Tim Cooper, BSc (Exeter), MSc, PhD (Alberta)
Carmen Herman, BSc (Babes-Bolyai)
George McGuire, BEd, BSc (Sask), MSc (Portland), Prof. Teaching Cert. (Man, Sask, Alta, BC)
Norman Taylor, BSc, BA (UBC)
Robert Woodside, BSc (McGill), MSc, PhD (McMaster)

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