Derrick Rohl '12 (right) stands in front of the 3.6-m telescope at the La Silla Observatory, Chile. Read his blog from the research trip.
Physics Major
Overview
Physicists study the patterns and connections among the fundamental forces of nature and develop simple and contemporary explanations for complex natural phenomena. Undergraduate physics majors prepare by studying the fundamentals: motion (from Newton’s gravity to Einstein’s relativity), electromagnetism (from Maxwell’s electrodynamics to contemporary coherent optics), quantum mechanics, and statistical physics. Laboratory experiences support and enhance theoretical coursework at every opportunity.
The student-faculty relationship is the most important element of undergraduate education. Learning at Illinois Wesleyan is enhanced by the individualized instruction and attention students receive from our faculty. Faculty members work closely with students answering questions in and out of class, acting as mentors and academic advisors, and collaborating with students on independent study or directed study projects. All IWU physics faculty hold doctorates in the field and maintain on-going research programs in contemporary areas of physics.
Curious about your physics professors? Learn more about our distinguished physics faculty.
Sample Four Year Curriculum
This is just an example 4 year plan; your actual schedule can/will deviate from this sample. Your faculty advisor will work with you to match appropriate courses with your interests.
Once enrolled, all students will have a degree evaluation tool available to them on MyIWU. This will help you determine what courses are required to graduate on time.
