Program Mission

The mission of the Physics Program is to foster curiosity about the laws governing the physical world, enlighten students in critical thinking, and instruct them on applying the scientific method. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in physics and physics-related fields, or the pursuit of advanced degrees. Graduates can pursue advanced degrees in diverse fields, including physics, medicine, teaching, engineering, or law.

Program Outcomes

1. Graduates will have conceptual knowledge of physics within the framework of a liberal arts education.
2. Graduates will be proficient in fundamental laboratory skills, including data analysis, and the use of instrumentation.
3. Graduates will be able to access, interpret, and utilize scientific materials as well as clearly and concisely communicate scientific results via oral and written reports.
4. Graduates will have the tools to succeed in a career in a physics-related field, graduate studies in physics, teaching, or the pursuit of advanced degrees in medicine, teaching, or the law.
5. Graduates will have the interpersonal and professional skills to effectively work within teams and be project leader of teams of varied cultural and experiential backgrounds regardless of cultural differences.

Program Requirements for Physics & Secondary Education double major

Guidelines for Acceptance to a Physics & Astronomy Department Major

In order to ensure that students are on a successful academic trajectory, it is recommended that students who have not earned at least a C average in both PHYS-2100, Classical Physics I, and PHYS-2110, Classical Physics II, should not declare a major in the Physics & Astronomy Department. Students who have not achieved this minimum grade guideline but who still seek acceptance to a major in the Physics & Astronomy Department must meet with and receive approval from the Department Chair.

Physics BA Requirements

Students must complete all the requirements for a double major in Secondary Education (B.A.).

 Secondary Education Major Requirements

A grade of 'D' will not be accepted in Education courses, major content courses, or the General Education courses that are specifically required for the Secondary Education major. 

Changes in Kansas State Department Licensure requirements will preclude requirements established by Benedictine’s School of Education.

Students will complete the College’s general education requirements in addition to the following courses.

Suggested Sequence of Courses for a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Physics and Secondary Education