Students in the Physics department are encouraged to get involved in doing physics early in their time at Southern - working with faculty on problems that are at the forefront of physics and astronomy, developing and characterizing new materials, improving cancer diagnoses, building better telescopes to search for exoplanets, and probing the earliest microseconds of the universe!
We have collaborative ties with technology-oriented companies in Connecticut to complement our interactions with physics and engineering faculty at nearby Yale and other universities. We are also actively involved in public outreach, including work to promote science education in Connecticut public schools. Physics degree programs all include extensive opportunities for student research participation and guided independent study. The department has a tradition of holding significant external grants, continues to acquire cutting-edge research instrumentation, and is now housed in the university's new state-of-the-art science building.
Why Study Physics?
An education in physics gives you the chance to help construct the future while gaining a deeper understanding of the natural world.
Our physics students go on to do research, engineering, and systems development in industry or to study advanced physics, materials science, or engineering in graduate school. Some have earned degrees in medicine, which increasingly depends on applied physics. Business and government demand analysts and managers to master complex systems and solve profound problems from telecommunications to global warming. At the heart of such processes are the principles of physics.
At Southern, you'll learn the power of scientific thinking, build a respect for evidence, and see the consistency of natural laws. You'll hone your scientific knowledge and mathematical skills as a basis for many diverse endeavors.
You'll master techniques that let you attack meaningful problems in pure or applied physics. Work with contemporary research-grade equipment to learn experimental data analysis and build your computational and laboratory capabilities. Learn to communicate effectively with other students and professionals and to work effectively as members of a team.
Study physics with us, and you'll be able to contribute sound scientific perspectives wherever the impact of physics and technology is felt.
Recent News
- December 2022. Applications are now being accepted for internships in the Industry Academic Fellowship program.
- November 2022. Graduate Student Xavier Lesley wins the Astronomy Poster Prize at the National Society of Black Physicists meeting in Charlottesville, VA. Congratulations Xavier! The conferring of the award is shown here, and Xavier’s winning poster is here.
- October 2022. Prof. Elliott Horch is interviewed by Ann Nyberg (Channel 8) about his work and science at Southern.