Physics is the scientific study of natural phenomena such as gravitation, electricity, magnetism and the nature of matter. The heart of physics is the effort to understand and predict what happens in nature, using reasoning inspired and tested by experiment. Students in Agnes Scott’s physics department acquire a general, flexible physics foundation in a collaborative, engaging and active learning environment.
Students interested in both physics and mathematics should consider the mathematics-physics major offered in collaboration with the department of mathematics.
What will I study?
Physics students develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills in the classroom and laboratory. Courses cover introductory physics, the theory of motion, waves, electromagnetism, thermal phenomena, quantum physics, relativity, electronics and computers in physics and methods of experimentation.
Why should I study physics at Agnes Scott?
- Internship Opportunities
Physics students routinely supplement their in-class education with internships at institutions such as:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Emory University
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory
- University of Alaska Center for Atmospheric Research
- University of Central Florida Laser Center
- A New Home for Science
Opened in January 2003, the 110,000-square-foot Science Center is home to the physics/astronomy, biology, chemistry and psychology departments. The building features extensive, modern instrumentation, faculty-student research laboratories, independent student-project laboratories and long-term observation areas. Full-time and part-time professors teach all physics labs and all students have the opportunity for hands-on research and experimentation.
- Students also have access to the renovated and expanded Bradley Observatory and Delafield Planetarium.
- Campus Involvement
Many physics students are involved in the Astronomy Club. The club hosts viewing parties and other activities throughout the year.
What can I do with this degree?
With a degree in physics, you will develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills that are valuable in a wide range of fields. You will acquire a general, flexible foundation for graduate study or for professional work in physics, astronomy or engineering. As a graduate, you can:
- Pursue higher education, including graduate school leading to careers in academe, industrial or government labs or in technical management;
- Work as an engineer;
- Work in the imaging sciences;
- Work with medical corporations;
- Work with the Department of Defense;
- Teach high school science;
- Work as laboratory assistant in industry or at a university.
- For more possibilities, visit the Web site for the American Institute of Physics.