Physics Major
SUNY Oneonta's Physics major has two options, depending on your career or graduate-study goals.
Options
Option A prepares students for graduate work or employment in physics or an associated field by concentrating mainly on physics and related courses. Prerequisites: a strong background in high school physics and chemistry, and sufficient high school mathematics to enter SUNY Oneonta’s calculus sequence are normally assumed in order to complete the requirements for graduation within four years.
Option B is suited for students desiring a strong physics background for study or work in another field. It builds a foundation of physics courses combined with an individually designed program, including courses from other departments. Students often select from courses in astronomy, biology, business, chemistry, earth science, engineering, geology, mathematics, meteorology, and water resources. Option B is recommended for students in the 3-2 Engineering Program.
Secondary Education-Physics Major
SUNY Oneonta offers an Adolescence Education-Physics program that leads to certification to teach physics and mathematics courses. The program requires courses in other sciences and in education.
3-2 Engineering
SUNY Oneonta offers a 3-2 Engineering Program in cooperation with five engineering schools. This allows students to major in physics or another liberal arts discipline at SUNY Oneonta and then attend a cooperating engineering school. Students who successfully complete the five-year program receive a liberal arts degree from SUNY Oneonta and an engineering degree from the cooperating engineering school. Commonly-selected engineering majors are aerospace, ceramic, chemical, civil, electrical, environmental, industrial, mechanical and nuclear.
Minors
With graduate study elsewhere, astronomy minors could pursue a career in astronomy or astrophysics. Courses range from introductory-level for non-science majors to upper-level for students with serious interest in the field. Current research emphasis includes variable stars, cataclysmic variables and globular clusters, with many other topics in development. Students also have freedom to propose their own research project ideas. Campus astronomy activities are supported by an observatory and a planetarium.