Physics involves the study of nature—the attempt to understand its fundamental laws and to describe natural phenomena quantitatively. Physicists are interested in everything from the very large (the universe itself) down to the extremely small world of elementary particles.

In physics, you study a huge range of phenomena: black holes, the formation of stars, the structure and properties of materials, and the behavior of quarks inside subatomic particles. Physics also provides the practical knowledge that underlies much of technology, creating an exciting interplay between new discoveries and the development of new devices, such as the laser, MRI medical systems, superconductors, and more.

Our department combines the best features of large and small university programs, with close attention to students within the College of Arts and Sciences. As part of a Research 1 university, you have access to tremendous resources and research opportunities, including the Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Research Experience (ASURE) program for incoming freshmen. Faculty members are known nationally and internationally for their work. All Physics classes, including discussion sections in the introductory courses for Physics majors, are taught by professors.