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Declaring a Physics Major

There are several simple steps to follow:

  1. Make a plan. Check the Major Requirements and see if there are any conflicts with your other academic goals. Keep in mind that most Physics courses are only offered in the Fall or Spring (not both). Moreover, many courses must be taken in a specific order.
  2. Pick your major adviser. Any Physics faculty member can be your major advisor, so it is usually more comfortable to approach a person you are already familiar with, like a professor you took a class from, or your research supervisor. This person will be your point of contact for answering any questions regarding course selection, research opportunities, etc.
  3. Contact your major adviser. Email the faculty member you chose and set up an advising meeting. In that email, let them know your availability over the next couple of weeks.
  4. Prepare the form. Before meeting with your major advisor, download major/minor declaration form from the Registrar’s website and complete what you can, including a tentative list of classes that interest you. Use pencil though – your adviser may suggest corrections or adjustments.