Physics attempts to explain the phenomena we observe or infer on earth and in the universe. It has made possible a modern understanding of the origin of the universe. Physics also helps us explain the behavior of biological materials and chemical processes.
Through PSU's Physics program you will build a foundation in both the theoretical and experimental aspects of physics. This includes everything from electricity and magnetism to quantum mechanics. We offer a multitude of opportunities to gain experimental skills through labs and coursework. Through your courses, our seminar series and guest lecturers, you will learn new dimensions of physics fields.
Our expert faculty are leading researchers in:
- biophysics
- nanotechnology
- atmospheric and climate science
- optics
- crystallography
- imaging
- photonics
- education
Students in the physics program at PSU engage in undergraduate research experiences. They also get to present that research in student symposiums.
As a physics major, you will take a group of core courses that provide you with a solid foundation in the subject.
Your courses will also include the following topics:
- force and motion
- heat
- optics
- electricity
- magnetism
- atomic and nuclear physics
- quantum mechanics
- the physical properties of materials
You'll have the flexibility to take courses that best fit your interests and career goals by choosing one of three pathways:
- Standard physics gives a strong background in physics. Courses focus on force and motion, heat, optics, electricity, magnetism, atomic and nuclear physics, quantum mechanics, and the physical properties of materials, learning both the theoretical and the experimental aspects.
- Environmental physics explores the measurement and analysis of interactions between organisms and their environment. Courses include Climate Change and Human Life, Atmospheric Physics, and Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, and electives from biology, chemistry, geography, and environmental science and management.
- Biomedical physics focuses on the application of physics concepts, theories, and methods to medicine and healthcare. Courses include Physics in Biomedicine and Radiation Therapy Physics, as well as electives from biology and chemistry.
We encourage students to take advantage of our undergraduate research experiences. Students make discoveries alongside our excellent faculty and graduate students. Our faculty and graduate student expertises include: biomedical physics, biophysics, climate and atmospheric science, physics education, and materials physics and nanotechnology. Our staff and faculty also have close ties with local industry. Portland State is home to the Center for Electron Microscopy and Nanofabrication. It is a signature research facility for the Oregon Nanoscience and Microtechnology Institute. A collaboration between Oregon's research universities, Pacific Northwest National Laboratories, and industry partners.
Physicists are employed by almost all industries, and PSU's bachelor's degree in physics will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and experience you need to succeed no matter where your career takes you.
Many of our students go on to complete graduate degrees in areas such as biophysics, material science, atmospheric physics, environmental science, and medical physics. Others use their physics majors as preparation for medical or law school.
Recent graduates have been accepted to programs around the country, including medical physics at Oregon Health & Science University, astrophysics at Northwestern University, theoretical and mathematical physics at SUNY at Albany, applied physics at PSU, and physical chemistry at Montana State.
With a bachelor's degree, you can also work in a variety of jobs in technical industries and government laboratories. Our alumni have been hired at Intel, Lam Research, Nike, Diatomix, and Micro Systems Engineering.