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Physics

Bachelor of Science in Physics

Program Intro

The Physics major at PNW offers an engaging learning environment and a rigorous program of study, augmented by a diverse research agenda.

With this degree, you’re prepared for graduate studies in not only physics, but astronomy, engineering, education, data science and medicine as well.

Department of Chemistry and Physics

As a discipline, physics explores some of the most fundamental questions in our world and about our universe. The fundamentals of physics have applications across many fields.

Studying physics develops robust quantitative and critical thinking skills that are highly desired by employers and offer tremendous career flexibility. With a small student-to-faculty ratio, our physics program offers you support and mentoring that suits your specific talents and goals.

Curriculum Overview

After the introductory physics sequence, you’ll study modern physics, intermediate mechanics and electromagnetism, statistical physics and quantum physics. We offer a range of elective courses, such as nuclear and computational physics. You’ll also develop your experimental skills through several laboratory courses and a senior research project.

Build a foundation through introductory mechanics and freshman seminar, along with calculus, introductory chemistry and general education courses.

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Complete an introductory course in electromagnetism as well as classes modern physics, advanced calculus and differential equations. You’ll also take general education and elective courses.

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Begin a two-year rotation of upper-level physics core courses, plus linear algebra, programming and physics electives.

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Finish your two-year rotation and conduct a year-long research project, which you’ll present in the spring.

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Highlights

Physics at PNW offers unique opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research alongside our faculty in particle physics, nuclear physics and astrophysics.

Our students have worked with their faculty mentors at the Large Hadron Collider and the Energy Center. They’ve also studied asteroids with the NIRO observatory and helped run supercomputer simulations of neutron star mergers.

A lion sculpture on PNW's campus PNW graduates at commencement

Outcomes

You’ll graduate with a strong understanding of physical principles and theories, experimental analysis techniques and theoretical/computational modeling skills.

This experience prepares you for graduate study in physics and affiliated fields (astrophysics, biophysics, etc.) or employment in fields ranging from data science to finance to engineering and beyond.

Beyond the Classroom

The Chemistry and Physics Club is a student-led group engaged in community outreach and activities of interest to anyone interested in chemistry and physics.

Career Paths

Physics majors go on to careers in academia, finance, patent law, engineering, manufacturing, IT, health sciences and consulting, among others.

Employers

Recent graduates of our program are employed at:

  • Old Dominion University
  • Ball State University
  • EXL
  • Dwyer Instruments Inc.
  • AM Stabilizers Corporation

Accounting student Tyler Klukken

Not only have I learned the technical skills necessary to become an accounting professional, but I also learned communication and professional development. I am confident that I have the tools to advance in my field and feel well prepared for any opportunity that comes my way.

Tyler Klukken, Accounting

 

Meet the Faculty

Maureen Mascha Bio Photo

Maureen Francis Mascha, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Accounting

As a CPA and a former audit manager Maureen Francis Mascha has practical experience that she brings to the classroom in her roles as coordinator of the forensic program in accounting and advisor of Beta Alpha Psi.

Eric Mlynarczyk

Eric Mlynarczyk, C.P.A.

Clinical Associate Professor of Accounting

Eric Mlynarczyk is a finance and accounting professional with over 18 years of industry experience. He has worked in the banking industry in several banking departments, has worked with corporate Treasury functions and is a licensed CPA.

A PNW Student in the Classroom

Take the Next Step

See how a PNW degree opens doors, from corporate boardrooms to non-profit leadership.

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