What is applied physics?
Applied physics is the bridge between physics and engineering. If you’d like to apply scientific processes to build things and want to improve how our society functions, an applied physics degree could be a great pathway for you.
Our applied physics program is designed as a physics degree for future scientists and engineers. You’ll study everything from digital electronics and thermodynamics to geophysics, quantum mechanics and applied nuclear physics. This will prepare you for a variety of industry careers or to advance to graduate school for engineering.
Get More Information
Program Details

What Can You Do With an Applied Physics Degree?
The U.S. Department of Labor Statistics reports that high-salaried employment opportunities in all types of engineering, as well as many other physics-related fields, are expected to increase steadily through 2031. Many of our graduates have also gone on to prestigious graduate schools for physics and engineering.
Advanced Study
You’ll participate in advanced laboratory work beyond our regular physics program. You’ll work in our modern labs, including a laser lab, and with our state-of-the-art equipment that includes a Scanning Electron Microscope and LabVIEW software. This will give you an advantage when it comes to starting your career or advancing to graduate school programs in physics or engineering.
Research Opportunities
We encourage all our students to conduct research projects alongside our faculty. Many of our students present their findings at national conferences, and several have won prestigious awards. We can also help you obtain summer research opportunities sponsored by the National Science Foundation around the country. Participating in research will give you a competitive edge when applying for a job or for graduate school.
Internships
You’ll be exposed to multiple internship and service-learning opportunities when you join our award-winning Society of Physics Students and Women in Physics student groups. You’ll also have the chance to visit facilities like the Pickle Nuclear Lab and McDonald Observatory, network with physics professionals, and participate in physics outreach activities on our annual “Physics Road Tour.”