the physics curriculum is designed with considerable flexibility in order to accommodate the variety of interests, plans, and needs of majors. at the same time, it provides a broad and thorough understanding of the fundamental ideas and concepts related to the physical world surrounding us. using this broad base, which stresses fundamentals, undergraduates may enter graduate work in one of the pure or applied sciences or one of the non-sciences such as education, business administration, law, journalism, or philosophy. they may also choose to go directly into jobs in education, industry, government, or business.

the department of physics offers graduate work leading to the master of science and doctor of philosophy degrees. futhermore, the faculty in all research groups are strongly committed to enriching the undergraduate experience by providing opportunities for undergraduates to fully participate in cutting-edge research projects working alongside faculty and graduate students.