Physics

Major, Minor

Why This Program & What You'll Learn

Learn the fundamental principles of the universe as you develop strong analytical skills. Learn foundational knowledge of thermal physics, quantum theory, astrophysics, mathematics and more. Then, put your learning into practice in laboratory courses and state-of-the-art facilities.

Quantum Science

Our students are exploring the subtle behavior of atoms and how they interact with molecules, nanoparticles and solids.

• By predicting how atoms interact, we can explore the properties of new molecules and materials that are at the heart of all technology.
• Students are currently investigating materials that can be used to capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
• Students are currently investigating materials that could result in new battery technologies.
  

The work that our students are doing can open doors to studying potentially revolutionary future technologies like artificial photosynthesis, new quantum systems for qubits, and smart materials for optoelectronic devices.

As a physics student you'll benefit from a fantastic student to faculty ratio of 3:1. And your coursework will culminate in the completion of a capstone project under the guidance of a faculty advisor. You'll graduate ready for careers in physics, computer science, engineering and even finance and business. You'll also be well prepared for competitive graduate programs.

You will have the opportunity to conduct research in labs equipped with advanced technologies like laser spectroscopy, magnetic resonance, rheology, thin films, polymer fluid dynamics and X-ray diffraction. Or study the universe "up close" with our 16-inch Newtonian/Cassegrain telescope in the Brooks ​Astronomical Observatory.

Share your love of science with fellow STEM students by living in our Science and Engineering Residential College. Form meaningful relationships and access personalized tutoring, academic advising and career-related programs.

Lastly, gain valuable experience for your future career or graduate program. Many students present their research at national venues. More than 50 percent of our students participate in summer research programs – and a significant portion of those continue as research assistants during the year. As a result of opportunities like these, nearly 100 percent of graduating students secure jobs or gain admittance into graduate programs.

Program Highlights

As a physics student here, you'll:

• Join a program in which nearly 100 percent of graduating students secure jobs or gain admittance into graduate programs.
• Take computational physics courses and have access to advanced experimental/computational facilities.
• Study in a department in which physics faculty consistently secure more than $2 million dollars of annual research funding.
• Be eligible to receive the Kenneth Wright Physics, David H. Current, or Kenneth W. And Margaret Cuff Saunders scholarships.
• Meet other aspiring physicists, astronomers, and STEM professionals as a member of the Society of Physics Students.