Physics Major & Minor
Physics Research
Physics Colloquia
As a physics major at Truman, you will pursue a rigorous training in the theories and practice of physics, learning to think independently and critically and work with modern technology and equipment in a competitive and supportive academic environment.
Choose Your Own path
- Our Bachelor of Science in Physics will be perfect for you if you plan to continue your studies in physics at a graduate school. You will study modern physics, electronics, classical mechanics, electromagnetism, statistical mechanics, and quantum mechanics, and conduct modern advanced experiments.
- Our Bachelor of Arts in Physics is designed to provide a strong training in physics with the flexibility of pursuing another subject in depth. With a strong focus on critical thinking, problem solving, and the ability to work and learn independently, BA in physics prepares students for many career paths such as law or medical school, secondary school teaching, or engineering.
If you're interested in engineering, you have two options:
- Physics/Engineering Dual Degree program
- Pre-Engineering program
At Truman, you can double major in physics and mathematics, then pursue a master's degree in education (MAE). If you plan to teach physics and math at the high school level, you can apply for our Noyce Scholars Program, which provides scholarships for undergraduate junior and senior years and one year of graduate school.
And a physics minor and/or astronomy minor complements any major.
Focus On Research
Work closely with faculty mentors on theoretical, experimental, or computational research projects. Present your findings at Truman's Undergraduate Research Symposium, state-wide or national conference.
With Truman's 16:1 faculty to student ratio, you will work closely with professors - not graduate teaching assistants — in intimate classes and labs. With an average of 6-12 students in physics classes beyond the introductory level, you won't get lost in the large lecture halls typical of large universities.
Preparing for Lives That Matter
After you complete your physics program, you will be ready to teach, compete for top grad schools, or enter the workforce as a researcher, engineer or beyond.
Our alumni benefit from the competitive and supportive academic environment at Truman — and employers know it. Here is where some have ended up after graduation:
Graduate school in physics at:
- Washington University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Yale University
- University of California - Santa Cruz
- University of West Virginia
- Penn State University
- Northwestern University
- University of Michigan
- University of Maryland
- University of Missouri-Columbia
Other graduate programs at:
- Applied Math at Purdue University
- Chemistry at University of Chicago
- Medicine at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Materials Science at the University of Virginia
- Meteorology at the University of Colorado-Boulder
Employment and other training:
- Naval oceanographic research
- AutoCAD design
- Jesuit priesthood
- Secondary and college science teaching
Download the Physics Handbook for more detailed information.
News
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1 February 2015 | 6:25 pm
Truman SPS—”Outstanding Chapter” for 2014
Our chapter of the Society of Physics Students has been recognized as an “Outstanding Chapter” for 2014. We often win this award, and it’s good to be recognized as one of the more active and accomplished SPS chapters in the country.
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8 December 2014 | 6:53 pm
Alumnus on Rosetta Project
Paul Friz, one of our recent physics graduates, was in the news due to his work with the Rosetta Project.