How the program prepares you for the field

Our curriculum covering the range of physical laws that govern the behavior of particles, fields and matter, from microscopic to cosmic distances and from very low to very high energies. For this reason, most physics majors do not pursue a field of specialization at the undergraduate level, but become broadly educated through an in-depth set of core courses.

You can obtain either a B.S. or a B.A. degree in physics or a B.S. degree in physics with an astronomy option.

You will develop laboratory skills in our state-of-the-art labs. The department employs more than half of all physics majors in these laboratories. Students have made significant contributions to our research programs, and many of them become co-authors of journal articles.

A few highly-qualified senior undergraduates are selected for our introductory teaching programs - fellowships which are managed by the Manager of Undergraduate Laboratories.

You will also develop strong mathematical skills - many physics students have dual majors in physics and mathematics.

Many faculty have been awarded college, university, and national teaching awards for their classroom instruction, and nearly all faculty supervise and employ undergraduate students in research. The department's faculty is internationally recognized for the quality of its research, receiving nearly $6 million in research grants annually. Important discoveries in research can therefore be integrated quickly into the instructional programs.

The department supports approximately 35 postdoctoral researchers from around the world, creating a culturally and scientifically diverse environment.

Information and socialization in the Society of Physics Students

Part of the American Physical Society. Our SPS chapter holds regular meetings to discuss common interests and concerns and organizes field trips to such places as the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory and the National Institute for Standards and Technology. SPS also participates in the Saturday Science program for elementary school students.

Scholarships

Our department awards over $30,000 in scholarships annually. All of our scholarships are awarded based on merit; some are also based on financial need.