Physics is the most fundamental science. Physicists use mathematics, models, and measurements to analyze, understand, and solve problems all around us. The Department of Physics is dedicated to teaching and research. With an emphasis on achieving close student-faculty relationships, our versatile undergraduate and graduate degree programs prepare students for advanced study or employment in physics, biological physics, applied physics, and related fields.
Because physicists are problem solvers with strong analytical skills, career options are versatile. For this reason, physicists are highly employable, even when the job market is slow.
Gradaute program admissions of recent graduates (alphabetical listing): applied mathematics, applied physics, astronomy, biophysics, chemistry, computer science, data science, electrical engineering, geophysics, management science, mathematical psychology, mathematics, mechanical engineering, medical physics, medical school, nursing school, optical sciences, physics, teaching, welding engineering.
Job titles of recent graduates not continuing onto graduate school (alphabetical listing): academic coordinator, analyst, clinical data coordinator, design engineer, design specialist, high school teacher, materials scientist, nuclear propulsion officer, opthalmic technician, optometric technician, patent examiner, physics researcher, product surveillance analyst, research assistant, software developer, software engineer.
Prepares students for graduate study or employment in physics and related fields, including applied and engineering physics, biophysics, medical physics, medical school, teacher licensure in physics, or careers in business or law. Students can choose from either a Advanced Physics or a Biological Physics concentration.
This minor provides a foundation in classical and modern physics together with enhanced skills in electronics or computational physics. It is not available to majors in physics. Courses may not be taken on a credit/no-credit basis.
The M.S. degree is a research intensive program with both a thesis and non-thesis option. Graduates of the Physics M.S. program are well-prepared for careers in research, education, engineering, and applied science.
The Department of Physics is part of two interdisciplinary degree programs leading to a PhD in Engineering or a PhD in Computer Science.
Sara McGinnis, Thomas McKenzie, and Hannah Stevens among 454 to receive honor
Chen crossed the finish line in December 2025, becoming the first graduate of the new Engineering doctorate program
Experience included work on quantum computer, multiple sclerosis research
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