Physics (PY)
The physics major offers a thorough grounding in classical and contemporary physics. It provides a basis for graduate education in physics, engineering, astronomy, and related fields; for careers in which analytical and problem-solving skills are important; and for immediate employment in physics and related fields of science, engineering, and technology. The College also offers dual degree engineering programs with Dartmouth College and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Students interested in these programs should consult the section of this guide for Engineering under "Programs of Interest."
Students who plan to major in physics or who are interested in the engineering program should take PY 130: Introductory Physics I with Lab: Forces and Energy and its co-requisite, MA 111: Calculus I, in their first semester. Those with strong preparation in calculus should begin with MA 113: Calculus II (see the calculus placement exam in the department of Mathematics and Statistics).
Placement in General Physics: Most students will begin with PY 130 (Introductory Physics I with Lab: Forces and Energy), but those with strong physics preparation may be able to enroll directly in PY 140 without taking PY 130 at Skidmore. Students who might be prepared for PY 140 (or want to challenge themselves) should take the . The placement test has 33 multiple choice questions and may take about an hour to complete.
PY 161, Introductory Seminar in Physics (1 credit), is designed for all incoming students with an interest in physics. It provides opportunities to explore the many research areas within physics and the careers that use physics training. All students with an interest in physics are encouraged to enroll in PY-161.
Physics Courses That Fulfill General Education Requirements: This Fall, the Physics Department offers PY 109 (Sound and Music) and PY 111 (Astronomy) and PY 115 (How Stuff Works) open to first-year students. These courses fulfill the Applied Quantitative Reasoning (AQR) requirement and the Scientific Inquiry through Practice (SIP) requirement.
Students should contact the Chair or Associate Chair of the department with any questions.
Recommended courses for a prospective major:
Fall 2024
PY 130 Introductory Physics I with Lab: Forces and Energy
PY 161 Introductory Seminar in Physics
MA 111 Calculus I (co-requisite for PY 130)Spring 2025
PY 140 Introductory Physics II with Laboratory: Electrodynamics
MA 113 Calculus II (co-requisite for PY 140)2nd floor, Annex
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