Because Physics is the most fundamental of the sciences, it plays the central role in these efforts. Whether Albert Einstein in the 20th century or Isaac Newton in the 17th century is considered, physicists have always asked difficult questions and provided unique, unexpected and intellectually challenging answers. As a Physics major, a student is offered the opportunity to join this small but dedicated group of professional scientists.

With about 40 Physics majors and 16 permanent faculty members and several visiting professors in residence, our student-faculty ratio is excellent and is one of the greatest strengths of the program. The capstone research experience has been a tradition in the Department of Physics and Astronomy for decades, and undergraduate Physics majors routinely participate in cutting-edge research while working one-on-one with Physics faculty.

All faculty are expected to maintain active research programs, and through such activity, professors are able to effectively convey state-of-the-art knowledge that prepares students to fully participate in today?s working environments.

Faculty members are conducting research sponsored by NASA, the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Air Force Office of Scientific Research, the Office of Naval Research and the U.S. Department of Defense.

Advanced courses include mathematical physics, optics, atomic physics, theoretical mechanics, quantum mechanics, astrophysics, solid state physics, electromagnetic theory, nuclear physics, plasma physics and many other topics. This variety allows flexibility in designing a plan of study.