Physics is the study of the structure of matter and space and time. Because it is so fundamental, physics is required for a basic understanding of all other sciences, and for all technology. Astronomers trying to understand the global structure of the cosmos, or the first few millionths of a second after the big bang, are totally dependent on physical theories about the nature of space, time and matter. Biologists who are trying to understand the way genetic information is coded in DNA need the techniques that physicists have developed in their studies of molecular structure. Computer engineers who try to build ultra-small memory storage systems rely on our understanding of physics at the quantum level. Every aspect of our scientific understanding, and all our technological advances, are based on fundamental physics discoveries.

We have determined the structures of nuclei, atoms, molecules and other forms of condensed matter. However, many fundamental discoveries are yet to come. For example, we still do not understand how to unify the theory of gravitation with quantum mechanics. Until we do, we will be unable to understand the very early history of our universe, or the nature of extreme states of matter such as black holes. Until we have more knowledge of the masses and structures of elementary particles, we will not know whether our universe will continue to expand indefinitely, or whether it will collapse back to a state of enormous density. High-temperature superconductivity is still not understood. Physics continues to offer us great intellectual challenges, and the prospect of another century of exciting discoveries.

Because the role of physics is so widespread, an understanding of physics and the methods used by physicists has very wide applications. Thus training in physics is an excellent foundation for further work in any science or technology. Students who have completed an undergraduate degree in physics can go on to careers in research, industry, education, medicine, engineering, business, and law.

Usually research-oriented students get further training at the graduate level, either in physics or in some other science or technology. They then take jobs in teaching and research at colleges or universities, or in governmental or industrial research institutions. Other holders of physics degrees go directly into jobs in science-related industry or business. Employers realize that a student trained in physics not only has a good understanding of the way the physical universe operates, but this student has also learned how to use this understanding to devise fresh approaches to new problems. In addition, physicists know how to relate theoretical reasoning to empirical facts.

In order to make it easier for students to follow their undergraduate physics degrees with careers in engineering, biology or education, the Physics Department has introduced alternative paths to a physics degree, in addition to the traditional “pure physics” path. A student who follows one of these alternative paths takes a set of core courses and labs, but is also able to do enough work in his or her chosen area of specialization to be prepared for post-graduate work in that area. Students interested in teaching physics in high school should consider graduate study in the College of Education to complete the requirements for teaching, after finishing a Bachelor of Physics degree.