Applied Physics
Trevecca’s Bachelor of Science in applied physics combines rigorous classroom learning with hands-on research experience. Students develop expertise in a broad range of engineering disciplines and can choose between concentrations in physics or pre-engineering.
Program Benefits
- Take advantage of exciting and unique research opportunities.
- Benefit from our small professor-to-student ratio that allows for tailored and interactive instruction.
- Learn from faculty who possess high degrees in their fields, who have relevant and valuable real-world experience and who make an effort to know you personally.
What to Expect
Trevecca’s Bachelor of Science in applied physics program combines an academically rigorous liberal arts foundation with a strong base in both science and mathematics. You’ll work closely with dedicated faculty on research and engineering design projects that offer unique, hands-on learning opportunities.
Our physics faculty have been awarded corporate and government funding to support active undergraduate research programs. Our near space research program launches high-altitude balloons to more than 120,000 feet that are tracked with our custom-designed GPS tracking and telemetry systems. As part of this program, you can design and conduct experiences, develop electronics and software, perform mathematical and physical modelling, and participate in launch, tracking and recovery.
Our magnetic imaging research program provides the opportunity to work with a SQUID (Superconducting Quantum Interference Device), providing hands-on experience with advanced electronics and signal processing, cryogenics, vacuum systems, mechanical design, superconductivity, data acquisition, scientific instrumentation and software development.
The hands-on experience you gain also prepares you to excel in further research or to continue your education at highly competitive graduate or medical schools.
Why Choose Trevecca?
Founded in 1901 and a leader in online education for more than two decades, Trevecca helps students discover and pursue an individual calling by providing innovative instruction; cultivating a supportive, Christ-centered community; and establishing relationships that open doors.
Recognized nationally and locally for academic quality, Trevecca has earned a reputation for providing the world with servant leaders, problem solvers and difference makers. Trevecca’s holistic approach to education encompasses intellectual, social, emotional, physical and spiritual growth.
Earning your degree in a strong Christian community means you’ll grow your education and worldview without sacrificing your beliefs and values. Our nurturing Christian environment offers prime opportunities in which to prepare yourself for your future career while strengthening your character and integrity.
Course Descriptions
Get details on all the courses you’ll complete as you work toward this degree at Trevecca.
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Financial Aid & Costs
Nearly every student at Trevecca receives some form of assistance in paying for college. Learn all about the affordability of a TNU education and options for receiving aid.
Career Opportunities
The Bachelor of Science in applied physics can be tailored to fit your goals and career plans. With this versatile degree, you’ll be prepared for roles in private organizations like engineering firms, government agencies or schools.
“The ability to be completely involved in projects like the double pendulum—from conception to fabrication to analysis—was pretty amazing. The professors really put the work in the students' hands. I always felt like I was given a meaningful role in research."
Course Descriptions
Get details on all the courses you’ll complete as you work toward this degree at Trevecca.
General Chemistry I
CHE 1040
The first course in a one-year sequence for students planning further work in chemistry. Topics discussed include atomic structure, periodic relationships, bonding, molecular structure, chemical reactions, thermochemistry, solids, liquids, and gases. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.
General Physics I
PHY 2110
General Physics II
PHY 2120
Introduction to Engineering Design
EEC 1500
A project-based introduction to engineering design. Industry-standard software design tools are used to create and document electrical and mechanical assemblies which are constructed using 3D printers and machine tools. Team-based design, engineering documentation, and collaborative work is emphasized.
Engineering Programming I
EEC 2150
An introduction to programming and software development for engineering, mathematical, and scientific applications. The basics of LabVIEW, MATLAB, and C/C++ will be introduced, and these programming environments will be used to solve problems, conduct experiments, and perform measurements. Topics include data types, functions, conditional statements, loops, structures, arrays, strings, file I/O, data visualization, and finite state machines.
Digital Logic I
PHY 2030/EEC 2030/ITI 2030
Circuits I
PHY 2500/EEC 2500
Elements of AC/DC circuits with semiconductor devices as applied to computing and other systems. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.
Mathematical Methods for Physical Science and Engineering
PHY 2550/MAT 2550
Designed to give accelerated access to upper level physical science courses by providing, in one semester, the essential background in mathematical methods. Course content may include multivariable calculus, linear algebra, complex functions, vector calculus, differential equations, and special functions. Lecture.
Modern Physics
PHY 3140
A course that explores some of the concepts that revolutionized physics in the early 20th century. Topics include relativity, quantum mechanics, atomic phenomena, and spectroscopy. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.
Junior Seminar in Biology/Chemistry/Physics
PHY 3335/BIO 3335/ CHE 3335
Requires students to participate in professional development activities designed to prepare them to apply for summer research/externship positions, graduate school, medical programs, and/or jobs in scientific or technical fields. In addition, students will explore the integration of faith with their desired profession.
Senior Seminar in Biology/Chemistry/Physics
PHY 4335/BIO 4335/CHE 4335
Culminating seminar for biology majors and an opportunity to engage in the preparation of a literature review, present scientific data in the form of oral and poster presentations, and demonstrate content knowledge by means of an external assessment. In addition, students will draw upon their experience within the program of study to articulate the relationship between faith and science.
Calculus I
MAT 1510
A study of Cartesian and polar coordinates, parametric equations, vectors and vector-valued functions in 2 and 3 dimensions, limits, differentiation of functions with applications, integration of functions with applications, Taylor polynomials, and series. It is strongly recommended that students take PHY 2110 and PHY 2120 concurrently with MAT 1510 and MAT 1520, respectively.
Calculus II
MAT 1520
A study of Cartesian and polar coordinates, parametric equations, vectors and vector-valued functions in 2 and 3 dimensions, limits, differentiation of functions with applications, integration of functions with applications, Taylor polynomials, and series. It is strongly recommended that students take PHY 2110 and PHY 2120 concurrently with MAT 1510 and MAT 1520, respectively.
Calculus III
MAT 2510
A study of partial derivatives and multiple integrals and additional topics in vector-valued functions.
CHOOSE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING
Projects in Physics or Engineering I
PHY 2560
During the first course in the research sequence, students will develop a research or design project in their area of interest. Activities may include conducting a literature review, designing a preliminary experiment or prototype, constructing apparatus, collecting data, and performing data analysis. A research or design project proposal will be developed which can be used to fulfill the requirements for the second course in the research sequence. May be repeated for credit.
Faculty-Led Academic Research Experiences (FLARE)
PHY 3333
Intensive participation as a team member in the completion of a scholarly research or creative project. A faculty member will lead each project and will mentor students throughout the project. Enrollment is limited; application is required, and students are selected by the faculty member leading the project. For more information, see the Quality Enhancement Plan section of the Catalog.
CHOOSE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING
Differential Equations
MAT 3020
An introduction to ordinary differential equations, including linear and nonlinear equations with applications, power series solutions, and Laplace transforms.
Linear and Matrix Algebra
MAT 3090
Linear equations, vector operations, matrices, determinants, linear transformations, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, singular values and singular vectors, canonical forms, polynomial functions of matrices, vector spaces, and related topics.
CHOOSE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING
Special Projects in Physics
PHY 4330
Open to science majors and minors with advanced standing. Individual study in a chosen field under the supervision of a faculty member in Physics. Non-majors may take course by special permission.
Research Projects in Physics II
PHY 4340
During this second course in the research sequence, students will conduct experimental or theoretical research in a topic of their choice. A detailed research proposal and permission of the instructor is required as a prerequisite for this course. May be repeated for credit.
Senior Design Project
PHY 4350
An independent or team-based project using the skills and knowledge learned throughout the first three years of study in the physics or applied physics programs. Designs will be documented, implemented, and tested. Emphasis will be placed on project planning, resource allocation, and recovery from unexpected challenges. A detailed design proposal and permission of the instructor is required as a prerequisite for this course. May be repeated for credit.
Career Internship in Physics
PHY 4510
Work in off-campus physics lab under faculty supervision. Recommended for students planning a career in science. Maximum 6 hrs. Graded S/U.
MAJOR ELECTIVES (CHOOSE TWO)
Electromagnetics I
PHY 3200/EEC 3200
This course covers applied electrostatics and electrodynamics. Topics include boundary value problems, Maxwell's equations, and electromagnetic waves. Static fields and waves will be analyzed under various boundary conditions in vacuum and in linear media.
Intermediate Mechanics
PHY 3300
A study of the states of systems of particles and of rigid bodies using Newton's Laws and conservation principles. Covering topics such as kinematics and dynamics of system particles, rotation proportions of rigid bodies, and motion under a central force. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.
Thermodynamics
PHY 4010
A study of the first, second, and third laws of thermodynamics, phase equilibria, and reaction equilibria. Lecture and lab. Fee charged.
Quantum Mechanics
PHY 4400
An introduction to the foundations and applications of quantum mechanics. Topics include solutions to the time-independent Schrodinger equation, the Dirac formalism, the hydrogen atom, angular momentum and perturbation theory.
*This program requires an additional 6 credit hours from Electrical Engineering or Physics electives (3000 level or above).
*For a complete list of courses, tracks and other relevant information, view the program's course catalog.
