Why Study Physics?
If you have a passion for understanding how things work and enjoy scientific experiments and mathematics, then you should study physics. Physics is the foundation of modern science. It encompasses the study of the universe from the largest galaxies to atomic nuclei. Its concepts, from relativity to quantum mechanics, challenge the imagination. Moreover, physics and the technologies developed by physicists play a major role in chemistry, biology, medicine, electronics, geology, and in the applied fields of optics, nanotechnology, computer science, and engineering.
A knowledge and understanding of the principles of physics not only leads to an understanding of the physical world but also supplies the scientist with the insight to develop new and innovative ideas, like the invention of the cell phone, the laser printer, the internet, and MRI; the discovery of high-temperature superconductors; and the advances in high-speed computers. Theoretical and experimental physicists are on the cutting edge of this exciting and vital progress.
Department Profile
The physics department is an exciting place to prepare for a future in science and technology. Physics majors work closely with our dedicated faculty to build a strong foundation in scientific principles and techniques. Highlights of our program include:
- Small classes taught by enthusiastic faculty members
- A supportive, encouraging and challenging environment with accessible faculty members and personal mentoring.
- Opportunities for research experience in modern laboratories
- Choose an emphasis in professional, computational, chemical, or geophysics
- Preparation for careers in engineering, computer science, research, teaching, government, and more
- Regular seminars in current research
- Paid work opportunities
- Active chapter of the Society of Physics Students
