Frequently Asked Questions - Physics Majors

Q: What classes can I take?
A: Many Physics/Astronomy majors might like to take 1 and 2 below, which would provide physics coursework for 8 credits. (This is possible thanks to special arrangements made with Physics/Astronomy Department administrators who have waived some of the usual prerequisites).

1. Physics 305 (if you will be a sophomore in summer 2011) or Physics 405 (if you are a junior or senior in summer 2011), for 4 credits.
2. Lyman Briggs 492, to satisfy your P/A "capstone" requirement (if you are at least a sophomore in summer 2011), for 4 credits.

Q: What is the minimum and maximum number of credit I can take:
A. Four is the minimum; eight is the maximum.

Q: What material would be covered in 1 and 2 above?
A: The physics courses (305, 405, LB 492 for P/S "capstone") would cover aspects of the development of relativity and quantum mechanics that are individualized to your skill level, interests, and future plans. Each student will work out a study plan with Professor Kortemeyer. You can expect required reading and "oral exams" as well as a project, probably as "Gedankenexperiment" (thought experiment) for each course. Whether or not you take the LB 330 (life and times course) you will be included in all field trips and you will give presentations as well as hear presentations from other students.

Q: What material would be covered if I take the LB 330 (life and times course)?
A: More reading and hand-written essays, as well as "oral exams" on Einstein's life and times.

Q: What is covered in the $3,980 "program" fee?
A: A big portion of this covers your lodgings and some food during the course of the trip (June 29-July 28). It also pays for museums, class rooms, and other required activities.

Q: What is covered in the $3,265 "additional costs"?
A: A big portion of this is for airfare (so that if you can get a good deal, you'll save some here). It also is for food not covered in the program fee.

Q: I heard that most Lyman Briggs students find ways to afford Study Abroad. How do they do it?
A: Most students get most of their financing through financial aid. Email Professor Westfall (westfa12@msu.edu) for a booklet on financing your trip and links for getting more information, or go to the MSU Study Abroad website and explore on your own (the website is pretty easy to navigate). Professor Westfall is helping put students interested in fund raising in touch with each other for student-led fund raising. In addition, Physics/Astronomy is making extra aid available to P/A students (up to $500 per student for the first 10 students). Take a letter requesting this aid to Prof. Dan Stump (1312B BPS Building or 3222 BPS Building) and email a copy to Professor Westfall for the sake of keeping track of requests. You will have to pay for your credits, as usual. However, the book costs will be kept to a bare minimum - no more than an estimated $20. (Think of what you are saving by learning from museums, walking tours, and presentations rather than paying for books in an on-campus course.)

Q: Is it true that Professor Bauer, chair of the department, recommends this course?
A: YES (that's why he's being so supportive). He also gives the following tip: in addition to learning in a very fun way, this class gives you a great opportunity to get a letter of recommendation for grad school from professors who know you and your abilities very well. This is a very important "extra" for physics majors.