|
|
 |
Physics
Physics concepts are vital for study in every other science and in all engineering fields. The Physics General Institute Requirement is two 12-unit subjects, ordinarily taken in the first year.
How to Fulfill the Physics GIR
In order to fulfill the Physics GIR, you must receive credit for both introductory physics subjects, Physics I and Physics II. The choice of subjects will depend on your background and interests.
You can obtain credit for Physics subjects by:
Physics I: 8.01 Classical Mechanics includes the following options.
- 8.01 Studio Physics uses the TEAL format (Technology-Enabled Active Learning), which features students working in groups of three, discussing concepts, solving problems, and doing table-top experiments with the aid of computer data acquisition and analysis.
- 8.01L (L=Longer) covers exactly the same material and in the same depth as 8.01, but lasts longer, finishing up during January IAP. 8.01L is offered in the Fall Term only. It is intended for freshmen with little or no exposure to physics with calculus in high school. The additional two weeks are used to reinforce basic concepts and allow students more time to develop problem-solving skills.
If you take 8.01L you should be taking some version of Calculus I 18.01 at the same time. If you have AP credit for calculus, consider 18.01A/02A along with 8.01L.
Because 8.01L and 8.01 move at different paces, you cannot switch from 8.01 to 8.01L after Add Date (the end of the fifth week of the semester).
- 8.012 is intended for students with a strong background in physics and math, especially for those with AP or Advanced Standing Exam credit for 8.01. 8.012 is not only taught in more depth, it also has longer and harder problem sets.
The Physics Department suggests that a student with AP or ASE credit for 8.01 consider enrolling in 8.012, rather than going right into 8.02. Students with credit for 8.01 who elect to take 8.012 receive 6 units of elective credit.
- 8.011: Physics I (Special version of 8.01 for Spring): 8.011 covers the same material as 8.01. It is designed for students who did not pass 8.01 in the fall. Students meet in small sections three times a week for lecture/recitation (Monday-Wednesday), tutoring on Thursday, and a quiz every Friday. There is no TEAL component.
Physics II: 8.02 Electricity and Magnetism
Please note that you cannot enroll in 8.02 until you have received credit for both 8.01 and 18.01 (Calculus I).
8.02 introduces electromagnetism and electrostatics and includes the following options.
- 8.02 presents the material using the TEAL format. It is offered in both Fall and Spring.
- 8.022 is taught at a more mathematically advanced level and is intended for students with a strong background in physics and math. It is offered in both Fall and Spring.
- 8.021 covers the same material as 8.02. It is designed for students who did not pass 8.02 in a previous attempt. Students meet in small sections three times a week for lecture/recitation (Monday-Wednesday), tutoring on Thursday, and a quiz every Friday. There is no TEAL component.
For more information on these subjects, visit the Online Subject Listing and Schedule and the Physics Department's Undergraduate FAQs.
Advanced Standing Exams in Physics
The Physics Advanced Standing Exams (ASEs)will be held during Orientation in August.
Details about time and place will be in the Hitchhiker's Guide to Orientation, which you will receive when you arrive on campus.
- A passing grade on the 8.01 ASE will give credit for Physics I.
- A passing grade on the 8.02 ASE will give credit for Physics II.
Physics Validation Exams for transfer credit will be offered at the same time as the Physics ASEs.
|
