Physics, Physics Concentration

Overview

It is designed for those seeking greater insight into physics and an introduction to more advanced topics and methods. 

Students who obtain a degree in Physics, Physics Concentration at Colorado State University are prepared for a career in industry or government, or for advanced study at the graduate level.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will:

• Obtain a solid background in experimental physics and basic theoretical physics. This will include a conceptual understanding of mechanics, electromagnetism, many-body physics, and quantum mechanics as applied to important model systems and real systems.

• Have the contemporary skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level positions in a variety of occupations or for admission to graduate or professional schools.

• Be able to carry out experiments on diverse physics phenomena using electrical and optical techniques; analyze data using statistical methods appropriately; identify systematic errors; and relate the results to core physics content at the advanced undergraduate level.

• Be able to communicate the results of experiments and theoretical analyses in writing and orally.

Potential Occupations

Physics majors who go into the workforce directly after graduation use their training in a variety of settings. The primary employers for our graduates have been large aerospace/defense and electronics companies, as well as software firms and smaller high-tech companies. In addition to the more obvious jobs in those settings, such as computer programming, quality control, and electronics design, our students have also been hired in training and sales capacities. 

High school teaching is a possibility: there are several pathways for students with undergraduate Physics degrees to obtain teaching credentials. Physics graduates possess excellent mathematical and analytical skills that are useful in business and finance as well.