Why major in physics?

What does it mean to major in physics?

Why is Austin Peay State University a good place to major in physics?

What can APSU physics majors do after graduation?

Whom should I contact to learn more about majoring in physics?

What does it mean to major in physics?

Physics is the study of the underlying properties of nature from the absolutely mind-bogglingly huge, like galactic superclusters, to the unimaginably small, like the fundamental constituents of matter.  It is the foundation of every other science and is responsible for some of the greatest discoveries and inventions of our time, such as lasers, solar cells, and hybrid cars.  A degree in physics teaches you the analytic problem solving and technical skills necessary to be competitive in today’s job marketplace, thus making you eligible for a wide variety of careers.

Why is Austin Peay State University a good place to major in physics?

The APSU Physics program is one of the largest in the southeast, though we maintain an emphasis on small class sizes and personal interaction with the physics faculty.  APSU Physics also has an excellent track record in getting students involved in research both at Austin Peay and at other institutions through summer Research Experience for Undergraduate programs.  We also have over a 90% acceptance rate to graduate school for those who apply.

What can APSU physics majors do after graduation?

Physics is the “liberal arts” of the sciences – it is excellent preparation for a career in almost any field. (Did you know that physics majors score higher that any other traditional major on both the MCAT and the LSAT?).  While some physics majors move directly into the workplace, most choose to specialize their knowledge in a master’s degree program.  In the sciences, this can typically be done in just two years for little to no cost to the student.  Here are a few of the graduate and/or career fields that APSU physics majors have gone into after graduation:

• Astrophysics
• Atmospheric science
• Biophysics
• Computational engineering
• Defense contractor
• Defense intelligence
• Electrical engineering
• Engineering analyst
• High-energy/nuclear physics
• Industrial engineering
• Management
• Materials science
• Mathematics
• Mechanical engineering
• Medical physics
• Medical school
• Naval nuclear power officer
• Neuroscience
• Nuclear/Fusion engineering
• Optometry
• Photonics/optoelectronics
• Physics education
• Robotics          

Whom should I contact to learn more about majoring in physics?

Dr. B. Alexander King III
Professor and Chair
Department of Physics and Astronomy
Austin Peay State University
Box 4607
Clarksville, TN  37044
(931) 221-6116
physics@apsu.edu

For more information about studying physics at APSU, follow this link to the Physics Department website.

 Follow this link for a listing of possible careers for physics majors.