Physics at UT Tyler

Physics deals with the fundamental principles of the universe from the very small (e.g. quarks and leptons) to the very large (e.g. super clusters of galaxies). Thus the laws of physics are the foundation for all of the other sciences!

Students taking physics at UT Tyler will develop a wide variety of useful skills

• Problem solving
• Logically and analytical approaches to thinking
• Mathematical modeling of physical systems

Students will also be introduced to the following topics in classical physics

• Newton’s laws of motion
• Work and energy
• Universal gravitation
• Electric and magnetic fields
• Optics

UT Tyler offers both algebra-based College Physics and calculus-based University Physics. Both courses cover basically the same material and differ only in the math requirements. Students in engineering and physical sciences typically take University Physics while other students needing physics typically will take College Physics. You should consult your advisor as to which courses are right for you.

Physics is taught by Dr. Randy Back (Assistant Professor of Physics) and Dr. Jennifer Kreft (Assistant Professor of Physics). For a description of the physics courses click here.