Welcome to the Department of Physics

Inspiring awe in the structure of the universe

Physics is the science of how things work. Physicists study everything from subatomic particles, to the properties of materials used to construct electronic devices, to the laws that govern the universe on the largest scales. These endeavors require a combination of ‘hands on’ experiments, theory based on mathematical laws and models, and computation often used to bring the theory and experiment together. The boundaries between disciplines such and chemistry, physics and biology are inherently fuzzy and interdisciplinary fields such as biophysics, geophysics and chemical physics are at the forefront of much of today’s research.

Degree Programs, Scholarships

The Department of Physics offers Bachelor of Science degrees in physics, pre-engineering, pre-health physics and liberal arts physics. Scholarships are available to Physics students based on their academic achievement and/or financial need. For a complete list of Physics scholarships click here.

Faculty and Student Research

Our faculty are active in different areas of Theoretical and Experimental Physics. In addition to course work, students are encouraged to get involved in research with the faculty.

• Biophysics (Armin Kargol)

• Condensed Matter Physics (Patrick Garrity)

• Cosmology and Gravity (Tirthabir Biswas)

• Gravitational Physics (Martin McHugh)

• Relativity (Carl Brans)

• Statistical Physics (Katja Schaefer)