• PHYS 8640

    Modern Field Theory
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.71

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    Applies field theory techniques to quantum electrodynamics and to the renormalization-group description of phase transitions. Introduces the path integral description of field theory. Prerequisite: PHYS 8630.

  • PHYS 1660

    Practical Computing for the Physical Sciences
     Rating

    4.30

     Difficulty

    2.00

     GPA

    3.75

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    This course teaches how to use the computer to solve quantitative problems. This involves learning the skills to write computer programs dedicated to certain tasks, to visualize data graphically, to use scientific software, and to learn other practical skills that are important for a future career in the sciences.

  • PHYS 1130

    Physics of Sports
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.76

    Last Taught

    Summer 2025

    A study of the physics concepts behind the motion of spinning and curving projectiles in worldwide sports such as soccer, tennis, basketball, baseball, football, etc. and rolling and sliding balls/diska along a flat surface. Basic explanations include utilizing kinematics, gravity, friction, air flow, and Newton's Laws. Learn about hang time, topspin, dimples,drag crisis, sideways forces, least energy launch angle, jumping, and crouching.

  • PHYS 8610

    Condensed Matter Theory I
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.82

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    The description and basic theory of the electronic properties of solids including band structure, electrical conduction, optical properties, magnetism and super-conductivity. Prerequisite: PHYS 7620 or instructor permission.

  • PHYS 1930

    Physics in the 21st Century
     Rating

    4.67

     Difficulty

    1.00

     GPA

    3.84

    Last Taught

    Fall 2025

    Overview of current areas of research in the broad discipline of physics, including the historical context of their development. Describes various career options in physics, including academia, government, and industry. Outlines the college physics curriculum and describes opportunities to participate in research at the university.

  • PHYS 8710

    Nuclear Physics I
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.89

    Last Taught

    Fall 2025

    Discusses nuclear theory and experiment from the modern perspectives of the fundamental theory of the strong interaction: Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD).

  • PHYS 9020

    Introduction to Physics Research II
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.96

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    Workshops given by UVA Physics faculty describing their research.

  • PHYS 9010

    Introduction to Physics Research I
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.99

    Last Taught

    Fall 2025

    Workshops given by UVA Physics faculty describing their research. Restricted to Arts and Sciences graduate students in Physics only

  • PHYS 3993

    Independent Study
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    Individual study of topics in physics not normally covered in formal classes. Study is carried out under the tutelage of a faculty member with whom the requirements are agreed upon prior to enrollment. (S-SS) Prerequisite: Instructor permission

  • PHYS 3995

    Research
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    A research project on a topic in physics carried out under the supervision of a faculty member culminating in a written report. May be taken more than once. (S-SS) Prerequisite: Instructor permission.