Emphasis is placed on general understanding, problem solving, and the communication skills essential for success in a career grounded in science. In the laboratory, students use state-of-the-art instrumentation in applying physics to a wide variety of systems. Opportunities are available for students to participate in research projects during the school year and over the summer.

There are three educational options from which to choose: a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree; a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree; or a minor in physics. The B.S. degree provides the necessary background for students interested in graduate school, engineering or industrial work; the Bachelor of Arts degree gives a solid background in physics with the flexibility to meet other needs, including preparation for professional programs such as medicine or patent law, or for students double majoring in areas such as mathematics or electrical engineering.

For students interested in teacher licensure, see the various combinations of science education in the School of Education Department of Teacher Education in this catalog.

Transfer students can transfer a maximum of 16 credits in physics towards the physics degree. Physics courses taken at other colleges by students already matriculated at St. Thomas may be credited toward the requirements of the major only with prior and explicit written approval of the department chair.

The department offers courses for non-majors to fulfill the laboratory science component of the core curriculum.