Physics is the science that describes the behaviour of the physical world. It is the most basic of all sciences and as such is responsible for the interpretation of fundamental physical processes which support many other scientific disciplines.

The degree programs of this department are designed to provide students with the broad-based knowledge and problem-solving skills that are needed in order to be productive physicists in an academic, government, or industrial environment. The programs can accommodate students with varying undergraduate backgrounds and are designed to provide maximum flexibility for individual students. At the doctoral level, specializations are offered in the areas of: elementary particle physics, nuclear physics, condensed matter physics, atomic physics, materials science, optics, biophysics, and quantum field theory.

For some students, the master’s degree will be used as part of a continuing Ph.D. program; for others, it will be a terminal degree leading to employment in government laboratories, industrial programs, hospitals, teaching positions, and other occupations. The Master of Science with a Major in Physics is offered under Plan A or Plan C.