Curriculum Overview
The Physics program at Plaksha University Mohali is structured to provide a comprehensive education that balances fundamental theory with contemporary applications. The curriculum spans eight semesters and includes core courses, departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory sessions designed to foster critical thinking and practical problem-solving skills.
Course Structure Table
| Semester | Course Code | Full Course Title | Credit (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | PYS101 | Introduction to Physics | 3-0-2-4 | - |
| I | MAT101 | Calculus I | 4-0-0-4 | - |
| I | MAT102 | Linear Algebra and Differential Equations | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| I | CHM101 | Chemistry for Physics Students | 3-0-2-4 | - |
| I | BIO101 | Biology for Scientists | 3-0-2-4 | - |
| I | PHY101 | Basic Mechanics | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| II | MAT201 | Calculus II | 4-0-0-4 | MAT101 |
| II | MAT202 | Probability and Statistics | 3-0-0-3 | MAT101 |
| II | PHY102 | Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics | 3-0-0-3 | PHY101 |
| II | PHY103 | Electromagnetic Theory I | 3-0-0-3 | PHY101 |
| II | PHY104 | Quantum Mechanics I | 3-0-0-3 | PHY101 |
| III | MAT301 | Advanced Calculus | 4-0-0-4 | MAT201 |
| III | PHY201 | Electromagnetic Theory II | 3-0-0-3 | PHY103 |
| III | PHY202 | Quantum Mechanics II | 3-0-0-3 | PHY104 |
| III | PHY203 | Solid State Physics | 3-0-0-3 | PHY101 |
| III | PHY204 | Optics and Waves | 3-0-0-3 | PHY101 |
| IV | PHY301 | Atomic Physics | 3-0-0-3 | PHY202 |
| IV | PHY302 | Nuclear and Particle Physics | 3-0-0-3 | PHY202 |
| IV | PHY303 | Computational Physics | 3-0-2-4 | MAT201, MAT202 |
| IV | PHY304 | Biophysics | 3-0-0-3 | PHY201 |
| V | PHY401 | Advanced Electromagnetic Theory | 3-0-0-3 | PHY201 |
| V | PHY402 | Quantum Field Theory | 3-0-0-3 | PHY202 |
| V | PHY403 | Nanotechnology | 3-0-2-4 | PHY203 |
| V | PHY404 | Plasma Physics | 3-0-0-3 | PHY201 |
| VI | PHY501 | Research Methodology | 2-0-2-3 | - |
| VI | PHY502 | Mini Project I | 2-0-4-4 | - |
| VI | PHY503 | Mini Project II | 2-0-4-4 | - |
| VI | PHY504 | Physics Lab I | 2-0-4-4 | - |
| VII | PHY601 | Final Year Thesis/Capstone Project | 4-0-8-8 | PHY501 |
| VII | PHY602 | Special Topics in Physics | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| VII | PHY603 | Physics of Emerging Technologies | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| VII | PHY604 | Internship in Physics | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| VIII | PHY701 | Advanced Research Project | 4-0-8-8 | PHY601 |
| VIII | PHY702 | Capstone Presentation | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| VIII | PHY703 | Professional Ethics and Communication | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| VIII | PHY704 | Internship Report Writing | 2-0-0-2 | - |
Advanced Departmental Elective Courses
Departmental electives are designed to deepen students' understanding of specialized areas within physics and encourage interdisciplinary exploration. These courses are taught by faculty members who are actively involved in cutting-edge research.
- Quantum Algorithms: This course explores the design and implementation of quantum algorithms, focusing on their applications in cryptography, optimization, and machine learning. Students will gain hands-on experience with quantum programming languages like Qiskit and Cirq.
- Advanced Nanofabrication Techniques: This course covers the principles and techniques used in creating nanostructures for electronic, optical, and biological devices. Topics include electron beam lithography, atomic layer deposition, and molecular self-assembly.
- Computational Modeling of Biological Systems: Using computational methods to model complex biological processes such as protein folding, gene expression, and neural networks. Students will learn simulation techniques using tools like MATLAB and Python.
- Energy Storage Technologies: This course examines the physics behind modern energy storage systems, including batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells. Students will explore materials science aspects and efficiency improvements.
- Optical Fiber Communications: An in-depth look at how light is transmitted through optical fibers and how this technology underpins modern telecommunications networks. Includes practical lab sessions on fiber optic equipment.
- Medical Imaging Physics: Focuses on the physical principles underlying medical imaging modalities such as MRI, CT scans, X-rays, and ultrasound. Students will study image reconstruction algorithms and radiation safety.
- Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos Theory: Explores chaotic behavior in dynamical systems and its relevance to physics, engineering, and biology. Covers phase space analysis, bifurcation diagrams, and computer simulations.
- Relativistic Quantum Mechanics: Extends quantum mechanics to include relativistic effects, covering topics such as the Klein-Gordon equation, Dirac equation, and spinor fields. Applications in particle physics are emphasized.
- Plasma Diagnostics and Instrumentation: Introduces diagnostic techniques used to study plasmas in laboratory settings and astrophysical environments. Includes Langmuir probe measurements, spectroscopy, and interferometry.
- Quantum Optics and Quantum Information: Examines the interaction between light and matter at the quantum level, focusing on applications in quantum communication and computing. Covers entanglement, quantum teleportation, and quantum cryptography.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department emphasizes project-based learning as a cornerstone of its educational approach. Mini-projects are introduced in the second year, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. These projects typically span 2-3 months and involve small teams working under faculty supervision.
Mini-projects are assigned based on student interests and available research topics. For example, a recent project involved designing a low-cost spectrometer for environmental monitoring, while another explored the use of machine learning algorithms in predicting material properties.
The final-year capstone project is a significant undertaking that requires students to conduct original research or develop an innovative solution to a real-world problem. The project is guided by a faculty mentor and must culminate in a comprehensive report and presentation.
Students are encouraged to collaborate with industry partners, government agencies, or other academic institutions during their projects. This exposure helps them understand the practical implications of their work and prepares them for future careers in research or development.