Physics
You also will acquire the ability to present and explain complex ideas as you move through this fascinating study. At CBU, you can benefit from a small college experience and still get research experience at large research institutions through national and regional summer programs such as the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program sponsored by the National Science Foundation.
Program Highlights
- Wide range of areas including mechanics, electricity and magnetism, special relativity, quantum mechanics, optics, solid state, and thermal physics
- Easy access to other courses in the School of Sciences and the School of Engineering for electives or minors
- Labs taught by faculty — not graduate assistants — who coordinate lab experiences with ideas taught in class lectures
- Combination of in-class instruction, in-class demonstrations, computer-assisted homework, and laboratory experiments
- Strong preparation for graduate school
What You’ll Study
The major requires 122 credit hours. You’ll take CBU general education and liberal arts courses, School of Sciences Support Requirements, plus courses in:
- Mechanics
- Electromagnetism
- Quantum theory
- Special relativity
- Thermal physics
- Optics
- Solid-state physics
A capstone research project is required.
View Physics Course RequirementsPhysics Minor
The minor requires 12 credits of introductory physics and 9 additional credits of upper level courses.
Careers
According to the American Institute of Physics, the average salary for a college graduate with a BS in Physics is 14 percent more than for other degrees. Following are possible career paths for majors in the field:
- Sciences
- Mechanical engineering
- Climatology and meteorology
- Education
- Aeronautics
- Military development
- Public research
Is a Physics Major for You?
If you have interest in more than one or two of these skills and interests, this major may be for you:
- Mathematics
- Problem solving
- Scientific principles
- Physical world at particle or cosmic level
Meet the Faculty
