Alternative introductory physics paths:
Physics majors are strongly encouraged to take the physics 41ABC series. The advantages of the physics 41ABC series are:
- Small class size. The 41ABC classes typically have 20 to 40 enrolled students, most of which are physics majors. This means you will get to know well the other physics majors as you go through the physics 41ABC series. You will also have much more interaction with the instructor. The enrollment in a Phys 40ABC or 2ABC class is typically 200 to 280 students.
- Flexible modern instructional format. Physics 41ABC has its own dedicated lab room. This allows the instructor to freely mix classroom and lab activities in an optimal way.
- Introductory physics is completed in the first year. The physics 41ABC series is the only path that will allow you to complete introductory physics in the first year. This has several advantages. One significant advantage is that allows you to begin upper-division physics courses in your second year. This is particularly important for students who are considering graduate school. By completing the 41ABC series in your first year, you will be able to complete all of the core physics lecture courses by the end of your third year, which will give you a very good preparation for the Physics GRE exam. You will also be well prepared to engage in research starting in your first summer. For all other paths (see below), you must take phys 41C in the spring quarter of your second year.
However, the following alternative paths will satisfy the introductory physics requirement for the major. Please consult your physics faculty academic advisor before committing to an alternative path. Students who wish to change their major to physics may follow any of the paths below. If you have already started taking introductory physics, you do not need to start over with physics 41ABC.
- 24 units of lower division Physics 41ABC can be substituted with:
- 40A, 40B, 40C and 41C (23 units)
- 40A, 40B, 41B, and 41C (26 units)
- 40A with C- or better, 41B, and 41C (21 units) plus 4 additional units of upper division Physics elective
- 2A with B- or better, 41B, and 41C (21 units) plus 4 additional units of upper division Physics elective
- 2A, 2B with B- or better, 41C (18 units) plus 8 additional units of upper division elective, 4 in Physics and 4 in any Science/Math/Engineering
- 2A, 2B, 2C with B- or better (15 units) plus 12 additional units of upper division elective, 8 in Physics and 4 in any Science/Math/Engineering