Mar 28, 2024  
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Physics


www.smu.edu/physics

Professor: Ryszard Stroynowski, Department Chair

Professors: Thomas Coan, Robert Kehoe, Fred Olness, Ryszard Stroynowski, Jingbo Ye
Associate Professors: Jodi Cooley-Sekula, Pavel Nadolsky, Stephen Sekula, Roberto Vega
Assistant Professors: Allison McCarn Deiana, Joel Meyers
Senior Lecturers: Simon Dalley, Randall Scalise
Lecturer: Durdana Balakishiyeva
Research Professors: Datao Gong, Tiankuan Liu
Research Assistant Professors: Katharine Leney, Chonghan Liu

General Information

The Physics Department offers a program consisting of courses in classical and modern physics, and research studies in both experimental and theoretical particle physics as well as in dark matter searches and astrophysics. The research activities of the faculty focus primarily in high energy, elementary particle physics and astrophysics. The advanced classes are small, so there are many opportunities for students to work closely with Physics Department faculty, particularly in the advanced laboratories where students become familiar with state-of-the-art equipment. Undergraduate physics majors are strongly encouraged to participate in research activities. A majority of majors go on to pursue advanced degrees upon graduation from SMU.

Simultaneous Degree Program

It is possible to earn a B.S. degree with a major in physics from Dedman College and a B.S. degree in engineering from the Lyle School of Engineering. The undergraduate adviser of the Department of Physics should be consulted for detailed information on the simultaneous degree programs.

Departmental Distinction

A physics major achieving a B.S. degree may graduate with departmental distinction by successfully completing a special program of study in addition to the requirements stated below, while maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.500. The special program consists of independent reading, research and senior thesis under the direction of a departmental faculty member. The student must apply to the department for this designation during his or her junior year. The student will enroll in PHYS 4375  or PHYS 4390  during the program, and a senior thesis is to be written and presented to the faculty.

Programs

    Major(s)Minor(s)

    Courses

      Physics