Physics Program at Fredonia
As the most fundamental of the sciences, physics offers insights into some of the most profound questions about our Universe. The quest to understand the laws that govern natural phenomena also drives practical advancements in technology and engineering. In fact it has been said that the physics of today is the engineering of tomorrow. At Fredonia, you will learn the tools necessary for a diverse number of career paths including scientific research, engineering, and education.
The Fredonia Difference
Fredonia’s unique approach to the physics major creates an intensive program in your first three years, giving you breathing room in your fourth year to pursue topics you’re passionate about; opportunities you don’t get in other undergraduate programs. Some of the electives available include: Astronomy, Elementary Particle Theory, Atomic Physics, Statistical Physics, Mathematical Physics, and Condensed Matter.
Career Opportunities for Physics
- Engineering
- Biophysics
- Technical business
- Patent law
- Finance
- Medicine
- Radiation therapy
- Education
- Scientific writing
It's Different Here
Student Story
Why Physics at Fredonia?
Active student club
An active physics club engages in research projects and outreach activities, takes field trips, and attending conferences. Recent club projects have involved magnetic levitation, holography, robotics, and construction of physics demonstration.
Faculty
You’re not taught by grad students at Fredonia. You’ll learn from faculty members who are accomplished scholars and enjoy involving you in their research.
Facilities
Literally from top (State-of-the-art, 17" PlaneWave telescope on top of Science Center) to bottom (planetarium in basement of Jewett Hall), Fredonia’s facilities rival those of bigger institutions.
Sample Courses
PHYS 333 Electricity and Magnetism
Mathematical theory of electrostatics and electromagnetism employing vector calculus. Applications of Maxwell's equations.
PHYS 323 Circuit Analysis
A development of network analysis including Ohm’s and Kirchhoff’s laws, dependent and independent voltage and current sources, circuit simplification techniques including node-voltage, mesh-current methods.
PHYS 234 Modern Physics
Special relativity, wave motion, basic concepts of quantum mechanics, atomic structure, solid state, and nuclear physics, including a weekly three hour lab.
Program Additional Links
What does a 4-year degree look like?
What are all the required and elective courses offered to obtain this degree?