Welcome back to Science 101, Bwog’s semi-regular advice column geared toward science students! In this edition, Science Editor Sydney Wells explains the different physics majors at Barnumbia.

Physics

  • Pure, unadulterated physics! From electricity and magnetism to quantum mechanics and general relativity, this major will expose you to various elements of the field, both theoretical and technical. Laboratory credits are required regardless of college, allowing students to gain experience in modern physics lab techniques! If you loved General Physics, this might be the path for you.
  • Offered by: Columbia College, Barnard College, School of General Studies.
  • Cool classes: PHYS GU4011: Particle Astrophys & Cosmology, PHYS UN3083: Electronics Laboratory, PHYS BC3001: Classical Waves.
  • Senior thesis requirements
    • CC: None
    • Barnard: None
    • GS: None
  • Student testimonial: “The physics major offers great flexibility with the option to customize the pace of the program to your needs. With accomplished professors and extensive resources, there are plenty of opportunities for undergraduate research. Additionally, the option to take graduate-level courses allows for a deeper exploration of topics. However, it’s worth noting that some professors are better than others at teaching, and upperclassmen can provide guidance in course selection. Overall, the physics major has been a fulfilling academic experience.”

Biophysics

  • An interdisciplinary major on the bulletin, Biophysics involves taking methods and ideas traditionally found in physics and applying them to the study of living things. Based on the course requirements, it’s a lot of biology and a lot of physics. So, if you can’t choose between those two majors, maybe give this one a go!
  • Offered by: Columbia College, Barnard College, School of General Studies.
    • Note: Biophysics is not a formal major at Barnard, and students interested in studying it “should speak to a faculty member early on (i.e., by late fall of her sophomore year).”
  • Cool classes: BIOC GU4323/4: Biophysical Chemistry I/II, BIOL GU4002: Macromolecular Structure and Interactions.
  • Senior thesis requirements
    • CC: None
    • Barnard: Must speak to a faculty member about major courses
    • GS: None

Chemical Physics

  • If you love both chemistry and physics, this one’s for you! The field of chemical physics generally involves studying chemical systems using principles and concepts classically associated with physics. In CC and GS, the Chemical Physics major requires more physics classes than the classic Chemistry major, as well as a semester of either quantum chemistry or quantum mechanics.
  • Offered by: Columbia College, Barnard College, School of General Studies.
    • Note: Chemical Physics is not a formal major at Barnard, and students interested in studying it “should speak to a faculty member early on (i.e., by late fall of her sophomore year).”
  • Cool classes: CHEM GU4221: Quantum Chemistry, PHYS UN3008: Electromagnetic Waves and Optics.
  • Senior thesis requirements
    • CC: None
    • Barnard: Must speak to a faculty member about major courses
    • GS: None

Astrophysics

  • A fusion of astronomy and physics, astrophysics utilizes the principles of physics to understand the universe. Basically, think: stars, planets, galaxies, and all that other cool, space-y stuff. In CC, the major is designed to prepare students for graduate school and thus places emphasis on getting involved in research.
  • Offered by: Columbia College, Barnard College, School of General Studies.
    • Note: According to the Barnard Physics & Astronomy Department, “Students wishing to major in astrophysics should consult a member of the department.”
  • Cool classes: ASTR UN3273: High Energy Astrophysics, ASTR UN3646: Observational Astronomy, ASTR GR6004: Stellar Structure & Evolution.
  • Senior thesis requirements
    • CC: Research-based senior thesis recommended, but not required
    • Barnard: Consult with a member of the department
    • GS: Research-based senior thesis recommended, but not required

Applied Physics

  • Applied Physics (or AP, for those in-the-know) is for SEAS students who just can’t get enough physics. The field involves applying physics concepts to solve engineering problems, and includes cool-sounding things such as plasma physics, solid-state physics, and laser physics! Undergraduate research opportunities abound,
  • Offered by: School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
  • Cool classes: APPH E4100: Quantum Physics of Matter, APPH E4112: Laser Physics, APPH E4130: Physics/Solar Energy.
  • Senior thesis requirements
    • SEAS: None
  • Student testimonial: “I greatly appreciate the applied physics program at Columbia because the degree really is whatever you make it. With a heavy emphasis on technical electives and concentration areas, you can specialize your degree in any area that piques your interest during your studies. This paired with the incredible laboratory opportunities and researchers in the department allow you to learn via direct application in virtually any field of research.”

Cosmic string signals via Wikimedia Commons