Overview

Because Alma College students have the opportunity to get to know their professors on a personal level, they’re able to explore the depths of their passions. String theory sound appealing? Electronics? Astrophysics? Alma’s Physics faculty members are happy to offer courses or create independent studies tailored to your specific interests.

The Physics department participates in Alma’s PRISM/ASPIRE program, which gives students the opportunity to participate in research with faculty after their first year in college or even the summer before they arrive. 

Through the ASPIRE program, Alma students can have the opportunity to do research with faculty as early as the summer before their first year. They also have a track record of being accepted to summer research programs and internships across the nation.

Career

Alma’s physics program rigorously prepares students for graduate study in physics or engineering, and approximately half of Alma physics graduates enter those programs. Those whose primary interest is physics often earn doctorates and find positions as faculty members at colleges and universities. Physics graduates who seek immediate employment usually find positions related to their academic program, most in computer-related fields. About half eventually earn graduate degrees, often with company sponsorship. Physics is also excellent preparation for non-technical careers such as law or business. (The American Physical Society has a neat list of physicist career profiles.)