Before you can take Math 124, you must take the Math Placement Exam. Your score on the placement exam determines with which math course you can start. If your mathematical skills are rusty, you may wish to practice those skills before taking the placement exam.

I'm nervous about taking Math 124!  How can I take the course and survive?

Rest assured that many students before you have felt exactly the same way about taking calculus, however...not only have they survived, they have succeeded and continued on to graduation. Several students say they even "enjoyed" taking calculus! Partly it's because we have excellent Math professors--they know how to teach the material, and they're friendly as well as approachable. So don't hesitate to ask questions during class or to visit professors during office hours. Here are some other tips: Attend class regularly (there is a very strong positive correlation between attendance and grades); follow the syllabus carefully, listen for announcements, and check out the class web page for any other information about the course; ask questions about the text as well as lecture material; meet with T.A.'s during scheduled office hours; do the homework assignments and turn them in on time. Some students also find that a study group is helpful.

What are the requirements for declaring the pre-major and major?

1. Pre-majors:   You may declare as a pre-major in Physics/Astronomy at any time, however admission to the major requires that your cumulative gpa be 2.5 or higher in the courses required by the major. This is a requirement that applies to admission to the major, retention in the major, and graduation with a degree in the major. In fact, it is to your best advantage to declare the major ASAP-(by no later than the end of your freshman year, or as soon as you transfer to Western)--in order to establish a plan of study, and receive important information from the department.
2. Majors:   You may be advanced to major status when you have completed the following two core classes: a) Phys 121+131, Physics with Calculus I (or equivalent) and b) Math 124, Calculus and Analytic Geometry (or equivalent). Note: these courses may be taken concurrently.

How do I go about declaring the major in Physics/Astronomy?

As soon as you are admitted to Western, or if you are currently enrolled, you can contact the Physics/Astronomy Advisor at any time throughout the year to declare in person or by mail. Be sure to provide copies of your transcript(s) (unofficial is fine) in order to verify your gpa and to have your coursework evaluated. We can determine which courses may be applied toward the major, and develop a plan of study for coursework remaining. If you're not sure which program option is for you, we can help.

What if my cumulative gpa does not meet the minimum requirement?

Students with less than a cumulative 2.5 gpa for the courses required by the major should repeat a course with a low grade. For purposes of the major, only the last grade will be counted. If you have any questions about how this works, or if we can help in any other way concerning the gpa requirement, contact the Physics/Astronomy Advisor for assistance.

How do I declare a minor in Physics/Astronomy and apply for graduation?

A minor at Western is not officially declared. To complete a minor in Physics/Astronomy, follow the Plan of Study of your choice and ask for advisement whenever needed. At least two quarters prior to graduation, plan to see the Physics/Astronomy Advisor for a minor evaluation. When you submit your Degree Application to the Registrar's Office, you will need to turn in your minor evaluation, along with your major evaluation.

How can I register for Physics/Astronomy classes if I'm not a declared major?

Currently, the Physics/Astronomy Department does not restrict classes to declared pre-majors and majors during the first five weekdays of Phase I. All classes are open to all students. All students are welcome to take any Physics/Astronomy class, provided you have completed the prerequisites.

What if the class I want is filled? Can I get an override?

If a class is filled (typically most classes do not fill), please continue calling R.S.V.P. Spaces typically open up as students are continually changing schedules through Phase II of registration. If you are a declared major and a class is filled, see the department office, CF 385. If you are not a declared major and a class is filled, put your name on the waiting list for filled classes at the department office, CF 385.

How do I register for classes that require permission?
(Phys 400, 449, Ast 457)

For Phys 400-Independent Study, Physics 449-Senior Physics Project, and Astronomy 457-Senior Astronomy project, you will need an Independent Study Registration Permit Card signed by the instructor and the department chair.  Once this card is completed, turn it in to the Registrar's Office (OM 230) to finalize registration.  (Note that registration is not finalized via RSVP.)  Permit Cards are available from the Physics/Astronomy Department Office (CF 385). 

What are the prerequisites for T.A. positions?

The Physics/Astronomy core is required--Phys 121+131, 122+132, 123+133.

What kinds of things do T.A.'s do?

T.A.'s assist professors in principally two ways: lab assistants and graders. Duties may include keeping office hours in order to help students who need tutoring, assisting during labs and grading of labs, grading homework papers, and keeping records. Students are paid an hourly rate based on experience with the department.

How do I go about getting a T.A. position?

Professors often invite students to be T.A.'s, but students with an interest in a certain class may also approach professors . The Physics/Astronomy Department also keeps a "Vacancy Pool"-a list of students who indicate an interest-so that as positions become available we can easily match students with labs or faculty who need help in various courses. To find out more about this opportunity, contact the Physics/Astronomy advisor before registration starts for the next quarter.

When should I apply for graduation?

The general rule is: apply for graduation at least two quarters prior to your final quarter. For example, if you're graduating at the end of Spring Quarter, you'll need to apply for graduation during Fall Quarter. Plan to do your major evaluation as early as possible during the quarter, well in advance of registration for that quarter to be sure that you have not missed any requirements. See information below about how to apply for graduation.

What if I'm not sure about the quarter I'll be graduating?

Go ahead and make an appointment with the Physics/Astronomy Advisor for a major evaluation, following the procedures as outlined below--"How do I apply for graduation?" We will evaluate your transcript(s) (or grade report cards) and determine the coursework you have remaining for completion of your degree. We'll then be able to determine your quarter of graduation. You may also wish to review Graduation Requirements for the Baccalaureate Degree.

How do I apply for graduation?

1. Make an appointment with the department chair to do your major evaluation. Make the appointment in the department office, CF 385.
2. Bring a copy of your transcript(s) (unofficial is fine-or grade report cards) so your coursework can easily be evaluated and complete the "Major/Endorsement Evaluation for Graduation/Certificate".
3. Turn in your major evaluation, along with Degree Application packet, to the Registrar's Office. (Degree Application packets are available at the Registrar's Office, Old Main 230)

What can I do with a degree in Physics/Astronomy?

A bachelors' degree in Physics/Astronomy provides an excellent liberal arts foundation and can open a variety of doors for jobs in high tech industries, government labs, and and as preparation for graduate school. Recent Physics/Astronomy graduates have found positions in a variety of fields including software development, optoelectronics, engineering, failure analysis, and education, among many others. Many graduates have found that the skills acquired in our program have prepared them for further academic studies in Physics, Astronomy, Engineering, Patent Law, Medical Physics, Medicine, and Education to name a few. For more information, see Career Options.

How can I get help with career planning and job search strategies?

There are a number of resources available to you.