Bachelor of Science in Physics

Missouri University of Science and Technology

This degree lays the foundation to begin your career or to continue your education for a higher degree in graduate school in physics or another field, such as law or medicine. The program has a high fraction of electives so that in consultation with your advisor, you can tailor a special program that suits your needs. This makes it easy to minor in computer science, mathematics or another field.Physics is the most fundamental of the sciences. It explains how the physical world works and lies at the foundation of nearly all technical fields. All natural phenomena obey the laws of physics. Physicists express these laws in mathematical form, so that they can be applied to predict the behavior of all forms of matter and energy, ranging from the subatomic physics of quarks, gluons, nuclei, and electrons, to the astrophysics of planets, stars, black holes, and galaxies. Physics forms the foundation for modern technologies ranging from advanced materials to lasers used in high-speed communications and surgery, modern electronics, quantum devices for sensors and cryptography, as well as the radiation detectors and optical elements used in space telescopes.The Missouri S&T physics department provides numerous opportunities for students to participate in cutting-edge scientific research supervised by departmental faculty. Topics include collisions between electrons, atoms, and ions exotic interactions between atoms and ultrafast lasers the electronic, magnetic, optical, and mechanical properties of new materials, quantum phenomena at ultralow temperatures dark energy and the large-scale structure of the universe, as well as gravitational wave astronomy. Missouri S&T physics students often present their work at research competitions throughout the state and at national scientific meetings.

College of Arts, Sciences, and Business