Engineering Physics
The objective of this concentration is to train students in the fundamental and applied aspects of nanophysics and nano-engineering. Current technological trends emphasize the importance of new materials engineered at the molecular level impacting the next generation of electronic devices and advanced medical therapies. Competency in this area requires both theoretical and computational understanding of quantum physics. This concentration requires a minimum of 121 credit hours. Approval for this Concentration requires an overall GPA of 2.7 or better in all physics and mathematics coursework through the first five semesters. The department is developing close ties with leading graduate programs in engineering physics that may facilitate the transfer of successful majors into these M.S./Ph.D. granting institutions.

Health Physics
This concentration provides core training in nuclear physics, radiation detection and protection, with some additional emphasis on environmental health physics. Health Physicists are in great demand, particularly with the recognition that nuclear energy is becoming a more important, non-fossil fuel, alternative. The proper monitoring of safe working environments at medical, industrial, and government laboratory facilities requires professionals with knowledge of the complex nuclear processes underlying the various technologies. Successful graduates will be able to enter the work force upon graduation, or continue onto elite graduate programs. Acceptance into this concentration requires approval from the Director of Health Physics. Students with an overall GPA of 3.0 or better in all physics and mathematics coursework through the fi rst fi ve semesters are preferred. The department is developing close ties with leading graduate programs in health physics/sciences (i.e. UT-Austin, Texas A & M –College Station, The University of Texas Health Science Center, http://www.uthouston.edu/; etc..) that may facilitate the transfer of successful majors into these M.S./Ph.D. granting institutions. The number of credit hours required is 125.

Mathematical-Computational Physics
This concentration emphasizes a high level of training in advanced mathematical and computational physics. Students in this concentration are expected to continue onto the Ph.D. in physics at the elite universities; however, some may be eligible for immediate employment in industry and government in areas demanding computational modeling capabilities. Evidence of continued and increasing intellectual maturity is required for admission into this concentration. A senior level thesis is required (for two semesters), as well as participation in student led, senior year workshop/seminars. The number of credit hours required is 121.

(Pre) Medical – Radiation Physics
The objective of this Concentration is to produce graduates who can enter the workforce or continue onto graduate programs in medical physics or other radiation oriented programs. Traditionally, medical physics is a graduate program. The present concentration prepares students for entry into such graduate programs. This is the reason for the prefi x “Pre”. TSU is one of the few undergraduate programs in this area. The requirements for admission are the same as those for the Health Physics concentration. The credit load required is 129. This program offers a solid background to aspiring professionals in medical physics and radiology.

This track will produce exceptional high school physics teachers. Students take 100 credit hours of core and basic physics courses, and 23 credit hours within the College of Education (total credits 123). Students must consult with the College of Education (COE) to determine their requirements. The present concentration is modeled after its counterpart in mathematics which recommends the Education courses EDCI: 310,328,340,350,464, and Reading courses 400 and 402. These courses are offered as possible examples. The specific Education courses are determined by COE.

Pre-Pharmaceutical-Physical Sciences
This is an exciting new (honors-level) concentration exclusively intended for entering (or transferring) students with advanced standing in calculus (i.e. A.P. Calculus) sufficient for being excused from having to take any calculus courses at TSU. Students will complete all core courses and designated physics and mathematics courses within three years (20 semester hours for each of the six semesters matriculated). The program emphasizes a full five semester load of physics (including quantum physics), and heavy loads in biology and chemistry courses. The objective of this program is to produce students who might want to pursue advanced degrees in pharmaceutical sciences (i.e. computational drug design, etc.), pharmacology, quantum chemistry, molecular biophysics, etc.. Admission to this concentration is highly selective. All eligible students will qualify for full scholarship and a living allowance. Admitted students will be expected to maintain a B average in all science, math, and computer science courses, and an overall average of C+ in all courses. The credit load is 120 credit hours over three years. Students may elect to spread the load over four years, if desired.

 Questions may be directed to the Department Office at:

 Phone: 713-313-1850 or Phone: 713-313-7980 

Professor and Chair:

Carlos R. Handy, Ph.D.  E-mail: handycr@tsu.edu

Administrative assistant: Dr.  Clancy Weeks  E-mail: weekscl@tsu.edu 

Department of Physics
Texas Southern University
3100 Cleburne Avenue
Houston, TX 77004