Physics is the study of the natural world at its foundation. As such it is the basis of other disciplines such as biology, medicine, chemistry, computer science, geology, astronomy and engineering. Physicists study the world from the smallest particles of matter (quarks and leptons), nuclei, atoms, and molecules; through forces and motions which determine properties of solids, liquids, gases, and plasmas; to descriptions of the behavior of matter on all scales up to stars, galaxies, and even the origin and fate of the universe.
The department encourages student-faculty interaction in all these areas.
For the traditional physics baccalaureate degree, the department offers a General Physics Option, which provides access to advanced theoretical and technical careers.
In addition to the Physics major requirements, modules for the Physical Science Option include:
- General Chemistry
- Physical Geology Laboratory
- Earth History & Evolution
- Earth History Lab
- Calculus
- General Physics
- Introduction to Computer Education
- Introduction to Computers and Basic Programming
- Introduction to Computer Science and Programming
- Physical Optics
- Analog Electronics
- Advanced Laboratory
- Thermal Physics
Career paths
Graduates find technical positions in industry, government or teaching; or pursue advanced degrees for research, design, or analysis in physics, engineering or related fields. The campus is surrounded with electronics, aerospace, and semiconductor companies, among others, who hire physicists to work in applications of optics, electrical engineering, biophysics, computer science, geophysics, aerospace, and astronomy.