Â鶹¹ú²ú

Physics is a study of matter and its interaction at the fundamental level. Physicists seek to measure, understand, model, and control the processes in the physical world around us. To this end, physicists use a variety of descriptive and quantitative techniques to represent their knowledge. Furthermore, this work is conducted in a community where collaboration, teaching, and communication of results are essential. Applied physics makes a connection between fundamental research in physics and its application to real-world problem-solving. Research in applied physics has led to the use of electricity and magnetism for lighting and propulsion, given birth to the semiconductor industry that has provided us with the conveniences of modern electronics, and played an important part in the development of biomedical technology. While engineers have perfected many of these inventions, applied physicists have been responsible for their discovery.

The degree in applied physics prepares students to succeed in a wide range of entry-level positions in the high technology and biotechnology industry by giving them a broad and rigorous grounding in the principles of physics, while at the same time emphasizing the application of physics to real-world problems.

Applied Physics

This option is intended for those students interested in pursuing graduate study, a career in teaching physics, or a career in industry involving the application of the principles of physics.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

• Carry out the process of scientific investigation, using appropriate lab techniques and safety procedures.
• Apply mathematical techniques to represent, model, and solve physics problems, including real-world problems.
• Write simple computer programs that control scientific experiments, gather physical data, and model or simulate physical processes.
• Apply specific knowledge in the areas of mechanics, electromagnetism, thermal physics, and quantum phenomena to problem solve in these fields and to real-world applications.
• Design, troubleshoot, and test analog and digital electronic circuits for real-world applications.
• Keep a laboratory notebook and know how to present scientific information as a technical article, as a formal journal article, or as a public oral presentation.