About the Department
The Physics Degree and Emphases
The general physics track provides a thorough grounding in all areas of physics, preparing students for a variety of STEM careers or further studies in graduate school. The emphasis tracks add focus to the fundamental physics coursework by including specialized elective courses:
Applied Physics Emphasis
The applied physics emphasis incorporates coursework on the quantum behavior of solid matter, including semiconductors and superconductors, nanomaterials, and the physical characterization of material properties.
Astrophysics Emphasis
The astrophysics emphasis includes coursework in advanced astronomical topics, including planetary, stellar, and extragalactic astrophysics, cosmology, and observational labs.
Biophysics Emphasis
The biophysics emphasis focuses on the functionality of biological systems and incorporates coursework in molecular and cellular biophysics, soft matter, and biomedical research.
Secondary Education Emphasis
The secondary education emphasis incorporates coursework on pedagogy and gives students the opportunity to start teaching in their first semester. Scholarships and student loan forgiveness are available for graduates who go on to teach.