2025-2026 Undergraduate Catalog
Physics
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www.smu.edu/physics
Professor: Robert Kehoe, Department Chair
Professors: Thomas Coan, Robert Kehoe, Fred Olness, Ryszard Stroynowski
Associate Professors: Allison McCarn Deiana, Joel Meyers, Roberto Vega
Assistant Professors: Saptaparna Bhattacharya, Patrick Breysse, Matthew Klein, Heidi Wu
Senior Lecturer II: Simon Dalley (Director of Undergraduate Studies), Randall Scalise
Senior Lecturer: Durdana Balakishiyeva (Physics Adviser)
Research Professor: Datao Gong
Research Associate Professor: Chonghan Liu
Research Assistant Professors: Robert Calkins, Katharine Leney
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, astrophysics, and cosmology. 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.
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 4390 or PHYS 4399 during the program, and a senior thesis is to be written and presented to the faculty.
ProgramsMajor(s)Minor(s)CoursesPhysics
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