The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers three degree programs:  an AB with a major in Physics, a BS with a major in Physics a BS with a combined major in Physics and Astronomy It also offers Physics courses for the BS in Education degree with certification in Physics. The AB degree program in physics is designed for students who are interested in fields that benefit from a strong background in physics or for students planning to terminate their education at the bachelor's degree level. The BS degree program in physics is designed for students who plan to pursue graduate studies in physics. The BS degree program with a combined Physics-Astronomy major is designed for students who plan to pursue graduate studies in astronomy or space sciences.  Since it does not offer graduate programs, the Department concentrates on undergraduate education in Physics and Astronomy. Courses are taught by faculty members, not graduate students. The faculty feels that Physics and Astronomy are learned not only in classes and instructional laboratories, but in research laboratories, so students become involved in research early in their careers, usually as early as their freshman year. Students are involved in research in the Atomic Beam Laboratory, Nuclear Physics Laboratory, The Program in Photon Induced Studies, Non-Linear Optics, and the Ward Beecher Planetarium.    Most students are paid for their work. Some work in the laboratory as part of their scholarship program.  Many of our students obtain summer research appointments or research quarter appointments at government or university laboratories.  Visit us! Prospective students are invited to visit the Department. To arrange a campus visit and tour of the Department or to receive additional information about Physics and Astronomy, contact: Dr. William G. Sturrus, Chair One University Plaza Youngstown State University Youngstown, Ohio 44555-2001 Phone: (330) 941-3616 FAX: (330) 941-3121 E-mail: wsturrus-at-cc.ysu.edu

Course descriptions for: Physics Astronomy The following is a suggested curriculum for Physics majors seeking a bachelor's of science degree, the most common. Please visit the Physics & Astronomy Department for curriculums for AB in Physics and/or the BS with a combined major in Physics and Astronomy. First Year General Physics I, II and Laboratories Electives Calculus I, II Chemistry I, II Second Year Health and Physical Education Calculus III Communications (English) Foreign Language (or elective) Physical Activities Introduction to Modern Physics and Laboratories Thermodynamics and Laboratory Differential Equations Third Year Mathematical Physics Intermediate Classical Mechanics I, II Electromagnetic Field Theory I, II Electives Fourth Year Physics Electives Quantum Mechanics I, II Kinetic Theory and Statistical Mechanics Electives Individualzed Curriculum Program Students seeking more specialization in a learning program may investigate and apply for the ICP. This program enables students to design the course of study best suited to their particular background and career goals and thereby create alternative pathways to currently offered degrees.