The mission of the Physics Department is to enrich the lives of its students through understanding the awe-inspiring structure of the physical universe, from sub-atomic particles to distant galaxies. The department strives to impart an appreciation for this pursuit and to equip students with tools they can apply both in and beyond the physics classroom and laboratory. This mission is carried out within the halls of the Physics Department, as well as through student and faculty participation in the broader University, scientific, and civic communities.

THE PROGRAM

Gonzaga University’s Physics Department offers a major in Physics leading to a Bachelor of Science degree. Course topics include mechanics, electricity and magnetism, optics, statistical physics, nuclear physics, and quantum mechanics. Students develop a basic knowledge of experimental procedure and analysis through accompanying laboratory sessions. Additionally, students majoring in physics are expected to achieve a familiarity with computer programming and computational physics methods.

Students who wish to major in another field, but have a strong interest in physics, may pursue a Physics minor.

The Department’s student-to-faculty ratio is about 3-to-1, and upper-division courses typically have just eight students. Such small classes allow for more personalized instruction.

OUTCOMES

A recent survey by the American Institute of Physics indicated that physics graduates were evenly split between those who sought immediate employment and those who opted for graduate studies. Of those pursuing immediate employment, the majority accepted positions in industry or government. Of those pursuing graduate studies, 60 percent remained in the area of physics.

Gonzaga’s Physics Department recognizes the diversity of careers available to Physics graduates today. The 54 required credits for a major in Physics gives students flexibility in their program of study, depending on their academic and career goals. The student planning on graduate studies in physics will likely take additional upper-division Physics Department courses beyond what is required for the major. However, students planning to pursue graduate studies in other areas may complete a second major, or a minor in those areas. This flexibility may also be used simply to take elective courses in other disciplines (engineering, chemistry, philosophy, etc.) that may be of interest or use.

Recent Gonzaga Physics students have entered a wide array of fields following graduation. Recent Physics degree recipients are pursuing graduate studies in engineering, law, mathematics, medical physics, medicine, physics, and philosophy. Additionally, recent graduates seeking immediate employment have found jobs in education, engineering, and finance.