The tutorial programs in the Physics and Astronomy Department offer unique opportunities for exceptional students. Majors engage in an in-depth study of physics and related fields, while broadening their knowledge in subjects suiting their individual interests. Graduates of the program may go on to jobs in a variety of scientific and technical fields, or choose to pursue graduate study and careers in research. At the heart of the program is the tutorial, in which the student studies selected material in a given subject area under the guidance of a faculty member acting as tutor. At individual weekly meetings, typically lasting about 90 minutes, the student and tutor discuss the weekly reading, solutions to problems, and other assignments.
Tutorials continue through all four years of the program.
Eligibility Students are carefully selected by the Honors Tutorial College and the Physics and Astronomy Tutorial Board on the basis of superior ability and sustained motivation. The personalized aspects of the tutorial system occasionally make it possible to accept students who have performed less well on standardized measures of ability but who demonstrate exceptional aptitude in other ways. The Bachelor of Science degree in Physics is appropriate for students whose plans include graduate work in physics or a career in industrial research. The Bachelor of Science degree in Astrophysics is intended for students interested in pursuing graduate work in astronomy, or planning careers related to space science. The curriculum includes the same foundation as the Physics major, with astrophysics courses making up a significant part of the junior and senior years.