Department of Physics

School: School of Arts and Sciences

Physics seeks to discover and describe the rules governing natural phenomena at all scales, from the building blocks of space-time to the large-scale structure of the universe. The Department of Physics offers a wide range of courses related to this fundamental discipline, ranging from popular general education courses such as Introduction to Astronomy to advanced quantitative courses such as Electromagnetic Theory and Quantum Mechanics. Our major and minor programs are designed to serve the full spectrum of students who wish to undertake serious study in physics.

Physics Career Paths

The study of physics develops highly valued and widely applicable analytical and quantitative abilities. This foundation can be tailored - in part through appropriately chosen electives* from related or complementary fields - to prepare students for a diverse array of careers and post-graduate opportunities, including but not limited to the following:

Direct entry into careers with a significant analytical and/or quantitative component
High-school physics teaching
Graduate study in Engineering
Graduate study in Physics
Medical school, law school, M.B.A programs, and other professional programs

Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU)

While not required for graduation, the physics department strongly recommends that all physics majors intending to pursue a graduate degree in physics participate in a physics-related REU in the summer between their junior and senior years. Most REU programs offer housing allowances and stipends comparable to what many students would earn at a summer job. Most importantly students are provided with the opportunity to participate in and contribute to a robust research program. Physics majors, in consultation with their advisors, should begin identifying and applying to REU programs in the fall semester of their junior year.

Undergraduate degree programs offered by the Department:

Major(s)

Physics, B.A.

Physics, B.S.

Minor(s)

Physics