Preparation

• An introductory physics course requires more than just a curious scientific mind. Before taking a physics course in college one usually needs to master basic algebra, geometry and to have taken at least some pre-calculus coursework. Although previous scientific coursework is recommended, you can get by without a rigorous background in science.
  
  

What You Learn

• The study of physics explores the nature of the physical environment and explains how natural phenomena occur in terms of mathematics, thus the standard requirement of having completed advanced mathematics courses. A physics student will learn how to collect data, organize findings into a readable format and then report on the outcomes of that observed data.
  
  

Structure

• A standard physics course is usually divided into a lecture portion and a laboratory work portion. Lectures explain the theories behind certain phenomenon and how to use algebra to prove theorems. Laboratory work gives the student a hands-on experience with the scientific method and observing physics theories in action.
  
  

Classical vs. Quantum Physics

• The study of physics is usually broken into two main areas, classical and quantum (modern) physics. Expect to learn extensively about Isaac Newton's "Law" of Gravity during the classical portion of the class. The "Modern" portion of the class usually starts with Einstein's "Theory of Relativity," discovered during the early part of the 20th century.
  
  

Why Take Physics

• Learning about all the famous theories of our physical world sounds great, but you may wonder why you should take a physics course in college. If you plan on completing a Bachelor of Science degree, most colleges require at least one year of physics. Undergraduate coursework preparation for medical schools, requires an intensive scientific survey, which includes physics coursework.