Department of Physics and Astronomy

What is Physics and Astronomy?

Discover the fundamental laws that govern everything from the tiniest particles to the vastness of the universe, while developing the advanced problem-solving skills that drive innovation across science, technology, medicine and engineering. Our department empowers you to explore the foundation of all sciences while engaging in cutting-edge research that pushes the boundaries of human knowledge — like Professor Benne Holwerda's NASA-funded galaxy evolution research where you'll contribute to real scientific discovery as an undergraduate. 

Whether you're drawn to theoretical exploration, applied research or pre-medical preparation, our distinguished faculty guide you through transformative learning that builds analytical skills translating across industries, from developing physics-based medical technologies to creating innovations in quantum computing and renewable energy. From NASA Pathways internships to prestigious Goldwater and Fulbright fellowships, our students gain the expertise and connections that launch successful careers in academia, industry and government. 

Here, your curiosity about how the universe works transforms into the analytical excellence and innovative thinking that solves complex challenges and creates technologies that improve human life.

Career Prospects

Where Scientific Discovery Becomes Your Gateway to Limitless Opportunity

Transform your curiosity about the universe into a career that drives innovation across every cutting-edge field. Physics graduates don't just understand the laws of nature — they become the problem-solvers, technology pioneers and analytical leaders who shape the future. With 76% law school acceptance rates, $200,000 median salaries in medical physics and 250,000 new quantum computing jobs emerging by 2030, your physics training becomes the foundation for extraordinary professional success.

Research and Development

Salary Range: $95,000-$239,200
Lead breakthrough discoveries in national laboratories, tech companies and research institutions. Your deep understanding of fundamental principles positions you at the forefront of scientific advancement across aerospace, energy and emerging technologies.

Career Opportunities:

• Research Physicist developing next-generation technologies
• Data Scientist analyzing complex systems and patterns
• National Laboratory Scientist advancing energy and defense research
• R&D Engineer creating innovative products and solutions
• Quantum Computing Researcher pioneering quantum technologies
• Materials Scientist designing revolutionary new materials
• Computational Physicist modeling complex physical systems

Medical and Healthcare Technology

Salary Range: $120,000-$220,000
Apply physics principles to save lives through advanced medical technologies. Your analytical skills become essential for developing and operating sophisticated diagnostic and treatment equipment in modern healthcare.

Career Opportunities:

• Medical Physicist ensuring safe radiation therapy treatments
• Biomedical Engineer designing life-saving medical devices
• Clinical Research Physicist developing new imaging technologies
• Health Physics Specialist managing radiation safety programs
• Medical Device Developer creating innovative diagnostic tools
• Imaging Specialist operating advanced MRI and PET systems
• Pharmaceutical Physicist optimizing drug delivery systems

Technology and Engineering

Salary Range: $85,000-$180,000
Drive technological innovation in industries from semiconductors to renewable energy. Your problem-solving abilities and mathematical foundation make you invaluable for developing the technologies that power our digital world.

Career Opportunities:

• Software Engineer developing scientific and technical applications
• Hardware Engineer designing next-generation electronic systems
• Semiconductor Physicist creating faster, smaller computer chips
• Optical Engineer developing laser and fiber optic technologies
• Aerospace Engineer designing spacecraft and satellite systems
• Renewable Energy Engineer advancing solar and wind technologies
• Systems Analyst optimizing complex technological operations

Finance and Consulting

Salary Range: $95,000-$250,000
Leverage your analytical rigor and quantitative skills in high-paying financial careers. Physics majors are highly sought after for their ability to model complex systems and assess risk in financial markets.

Career Opportunities:

• Quantitative Analyst developing trading algorithms and risk models
• Management Consultant solving complex business challenges
• Financial Risk Manager assessing and mitigating investment risks
• Data Analytics Consultant providing strategic business insights
• Investment Banking Analyst evaluating market opportunities
• Actuarial Scientist calculating insurance and pension risks
• Business Intelligence Analyst optimizing operational efficiency

Law and Intellectual Property

Salary Range: $70,000-$200,000
Combine scientific expertise with legal practice in specialized high-demand fields. With 76% law school acceptance rates — significantly higher than the 42% average — physics majors excel in technical legal specialties.

Career Opportunities:

• Patent Attorney protecting intellectual property rights
• Technology Transfer Specialist commercializing scientific innovations
• Science Policy Analyst shaping government technology regulations
• Legal Consultant on technical and scientific litigation
• Regulatory Affairs Specialist ensuring compliance in tech industries
• Environmental Law Attorney addressing climate and energy issues
• Forensic Analyst applying physics principles to legal investigations

Education and Academia

Salary Range: $55,000-$150,000
Inspire the next generation while pursuing cutting-edge research. Academic careers offer intellectual freedom, research opportunities and the chance to make lasting contributions to scientific knowledge.

Career Opportunities:

• Physics Professor conducting research and teaching
• Science Communication Specialist translating complex concepts
• Curriculum Developer creating innovative physics education programs
• Science Museum Educator engaging public understanding of physics
• Online Education Developer creating digital learning platforms
• STEM Outreach Coordinator inspiring young scientists
• Educational Technology Specialist integrating tech into learning

Government and National Security

Salary Range: $80,000-$165,000
Serve national interests through careers that demand the highest levels of analytical thinking and problem-solving. Your physics background provides the technical foundation needed for critical government roles.

Career Opportunities:

• National Security Analyst assessing technological threats
• Space Program Scientist advancing space exploration missions
• Energy Policy Analyst developing sustainable energy strategies
• Defense Contractor Engineer designing advanced defense systems
• Nuclear Safety Inspector ensuring reactor safety and compliance
• Intelligence Analyst interpreting scientific and technical data
• Federal Research Scientist advancing government research priorities

Your Journey to Scientific Leadership Awaits

Every path in Physics connects your passion for understanding the universe with the power to shape the future of technology, medicine and human knowledge. Whether you're drawn to the $220,000 potential in medical physics, the emerging $150,000+ opportunities in quantum computing or the intellectual rewards of research that could change the world, your degree provides the analytical foundation for careers that push the boundaries of what's possible. With exceptional performance on professional school exams, growing demand across technology sectors and the versatility to adapt to emerging fields, your investment in Physics becomes your gateway to both intellectual fulfillment and extraordinary professional success that scales with every breakthrough you help create.