Guidelines for Physics

Table of Contents

1. Purpose
2. General Collection Guidelines
    A. Language
    B. Chronology
    C. Geography
    D. Publication Date
    E. Treatment of Subject
    F. Types of Materials and Formats
3. Area Resources
4. Subjects and Collecting Levels

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1. Purpose.

Collections in Physics support a research agenda consistent with research enterprise at a Carnegie Research Intensive (Very High Research) institution with bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in the field.

The Department of Physics offers three undergraduate degree programs: the B.S. in physics, the dual physics/engineering program, and the accelerated B.S./M.S. physics program. Physics majors interested in teaching careers in elementary, secondary, or special education participate in an extended program that results in the awarding of two degrees: a B.S. in physics and a master's degree in teaching. The dual physics-engineering degree program is conducted in conjunction with Auburn University, George Washington University, and Old Dominion University. Upon completion of the requirements for a B.S. in engineering at the cooperating university, the student also receives a B.S. in physics from V.C.U. The Department of Physics offers a program leading to a Master of Science degree with an emphasis in either instrumentation, the physics of materials, or physics research. The department also offers a Ph.D. in Systems Modeling and Analysis jointly with the Department of Operations Research. .

2. General Collection Guidelines.

A. Language.
English is the primary language of the collection. Foreign or multi-language monographic and serial titles are collected selectively, particularly research works of international importance or value.

B. Chronology.
No restrictions.

C. Geography.
No restrictions.

D. Publication Date.
Emphasis is on current imprints, particularly the latest editions of core texts. Older materials, for example, classics and historical texts, are added to the collection whenever necessary. Journal backfiles are purchased to fill gaps and to augment the collection.

E. Treatment of Subject.
Materials that provide current and historical research data are collected. Acquisition of textbooks is highly selective.

F. Types of Materials and Formats.
Monographs and periodicals are the principal materials with preference for electronic format. Conference proceedings and symposia are also collected. Video materials support teaching and research in the department.

3. Area Resources.

There are no comparable resources in the area.

4. Subjects and Collecting Levels.

Resources for Physics are collected at a research level (4).