Quick Facts
Did You Know...
► There are about 100 undergraduate majors in the Physics Department, with 16 full time faculty members.
► 70% of physics undergraduates engage in research before graduation, and 15-20% of those are co-authors on research papers.
Access to Advising
Miami University's retention rate of 89% ranks it among the best in the nation for students returning for their sophomore year. A major in the physics department is assigned an adviser in their first year who will remain their adviser throughout their undergraduate education. View current advisors »
Student Activities
Miami University has an active chapter of the Society of Physics Students. Regular activities include weekly meetings, outreach, field trips, and fun, with two annual picnics and monthly pizza and movie nights.
Astronomy Club
The Miami University Astronomy Club meets regularly during the academic year. With a Questar, several other telescopes, and a remote observatory, students can observe in all types of weather.
Undergraduate Research
Undergraduates have the opportunity to conduct research beginning in the first year. Undergraduate and graduate students often work side by side to achieve their research goals. View current research groups »
Presentation experiences
Undergraduates in physics have the opportunity to present research findings at national meetings. Pictured are Perry Rice and his student, Ethan Stanifer, at the Frontiers in Optics conference in Orlando, FL.
Announcements and News
Astronaut Scholarship Awarded to Rosie Ries
Congratulations to Rosie Ries, physics and geology double major, as a recipient of the Astronaut Scholarship for the 2019-20 academic year!
The Astronaut Scholarship is among the most significant merit-based monetary scholarships awarded to undergraduate STEM juniors and seniors who intend to pursue research or advance their field upon completion of their final degree.
A member of the Astronaut Hall of Fame will visit Miami Oct. 2 to give a public lecture and recognize Ries and Ollier.
Rachel Ollier and Rosie Ries awarded Astronaut Scholarships»
President Crawford Featured in Physics Today
Our university, department, laser lab, and students appeared with President Crawford in the July issue of Physics Today!
Noyce Scholarship for Future Teachers
Miami University’s Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program seeks to encourage talented science, engineering, and mathematics majors and professionals to become secondary mathematics and science teachers.
Department Graduate Featured
Department and honors program graduate, Audrey Short (2018 Goldwater Scholar), is featured on the national Goldwater Foundation website. Audrey graduated last weekend with a double degree in biochemistry and physics, along with departmental honors with distinction, and is off to UC Berkeley for a PhD in biophysics. Her research adviser was Dr. Paul Urayama.