About the Physics Program

If you are looking for a degree program that will open the door to a wide range of job opportunities, Troy University’s Bachelor of Science in Physics may hold the key for you.

TROY’s Department of Chemistry and Physics offers majors and minors in both chemistry and physics—the most fundamental of all the sciences.

Physics graduates generally see approximately 94 percent employment rates one year after graduation. Roughly half of the graduates go into the private sector and enter the workforce in the fields of engineering, civilian government laboratory research, computer or information systems, natural sciences or other science, technology engineering and mathematics fields.

The physics major requires 65 hours in general studies, 18 hours in a minor subject of study and 37 hours in the major field. The major includes a solid foundation in fundamental physics and an up-to-date curriculum taught by an expert faculty committed to helping students succeed.

TROY physics faculty members have expertise in theoretical physics, optics and nuclear physics and provide individualized attention for students. Faculty members frequently perform experimental demonstrations during classes to help ground student’s knowledge in real-world phenomena.

Physics majors will take coursework in mechanics, modern physics, optics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism and quantum mechanics. In addition, the department offers advanced undergraduate courses in special relativity, general relativity, black holes and nuclear physics. Students will also have the opportunity to design and run undergraduate laboratory experiments.

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Graduates of the TROY physics program will be equipped to:

• Think analytically and solve problems.
• Interpret data and implement mathematical models.
• Understand principles that govern the interaction between matter, energy, time and space.
• Apply knowledge of physics to problems in astrophysics, electronics, optics, engineering and nuclear and atomic phenomena.

Many physics-related careers involve technical skill with electronics, interpretation of data and mathematical modeling. Potential careers for the physics graduate include: professional physicist, astronomer, nuclear engineer, biotechnologist, financial analyst, educator, research with a defense contractor, optical scientist, patent attorney, chief engineer and director of technology. However, physics majors can be found in some of the most diverse occupations—19 percent are found in computer occupations, 19 percent in management occupations, 14 percent in engineering occupations and 9 percent in sales occupations.

Many graduates use their TROY physics degree to propel them into graduate studies. Moreover, physics majors rank second in entrance exam scores for both medical and law schools.

So, whether you are looking for a degree program that will equip you to success in a wide range of job opportunities or looking for a solid foundation for graduate-level study, TROY’s Bachelor of Science in Physics will equip you with the skills necessary for success.