Print
B.S. Degree in Engineering Physics {21-22}

B.S. Degree in Engineering Physics

Description
The Engineering Physics major is designed for students who are curious about and want an applied understanding of how the natural world works. This major develops mathematical, modeling, computational, and lab skills that are applicable to a wide variety of engineering-related careers. The major is also good preparation for graduate school in engineering and related fields. Students have the option of obtaining a dual degree in physics (from MSUM) and engineering by completing the engineering curriculum at a university of their choice. To receive the B.S. Degree in Engineering Physics, the student must meet the minimum university requirements and specific requirements for the program/emphasis. Completion of 120 credits is required for this degree which includes the Liberal Arts and Sciences Curriculum.

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Demonstrate basic knowledge of experimental physics and engineering concepts.
  • Apply analytical thinking, mathematical analysis, and computational techniques to the solution of problems in engineering.
  • Reach both quantitative and qualitative conclusions from experimental data.
  • Apply analytical thinking, instrumentation skills, and computer techniques to perform experiments.
  • Participate in an internship that develops engineering design skills OR Conduct an independent research project that uses engineering design principles.

Program Delivery Mode
Land plus: face-to-face where some online courses may be available or required

Core Requirements ( 31 credits )

PHYS 200 Physics I with Calculus & Lab (4)
PHYS 201 Physics II with Calculus & Lab (4)
PHYS 202 Introduction to 20th Century Physics (3)
PHYS 305 Experimental Physics I (3)
PHYS 315 Physics Seminar (1)
PHYS 322 Elementary Modern Physics (3)
PHYS 350 Computational Methods for Physical Science (3)
PHYS 330 Intermediate Mechanics (4)
PHYS 306 Experimental Physics II (3)

Designated Writing Intensive Course for Major
PHYS 305 Experimental Physics I (3)

Program Requirements

Students who major in Engineering Physics and choose to pursue the optional dual degree by completing an engineering degree at another university will be exempted from the MSUM graduation requirement that eight of the last twelve credits be completed at MSUM for the Engineering Physics degree.

Related Requirements ( 32 credits )

MATH 261 Calculus I (4)
MATH 262 Calculus II (4)
MATH 323 Multi-Variable and Vector Calculus (4)
MATH 327 Linear Algebra (3)
MATH 366 Differential Equations (3)
CSIS 155 Introduction to Computers and Programming I (3)
CHEM 150 General Chemistry I (3) and CHEM 150L General Chemistry I Lab (1)
CHEM 210 General Chemistry II (3) and CHEM 210L General Chemistry II Lab (1)

Restricted Electives ( 9 credits )

Students must complete one of the two options below:

ENG 469 Internship (3) OR
PHYS 342 Introduction to Research (1) AND
PHYS 492 Senior Project (2)

Students must complete six credits from the list below:

PHYS 312 Analog Electronics (3)
PHYS 318 Biophysics and Medical Imaging (3)
PHYS 325 Optics (3)

In addition, students must complete at least three credits from the list below:

PHYS 370 Electromagnetic Theory (4)
PHYS 380 Thermodynamics (3)
PHYS 430 Quantum Mechanics (3)
CHEM 450 Physical Chemistry: Thermodynamics (3)

Students may substitute an appropriate engineering course at the 300 level or higher for any courses above.

Recommended Electives

We recommend students consider completing the courses listed below. Students are not required to complete these courses.  Students are encouraged to take Math 260 with Math 261.

MATH 210 Discrete Math (3)
MATH 260 Computer Calculus (1)
ENGL 387 Technical Report Writing (3)

Students are particularly encouraged to consider an internship, which can be completed during the summer:

ENG 469 Internship (1-3)