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Physics

Discover the laws that govern the universe while conducting original research and developing the analytical skills to solve complex problems.

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Program Overview

What can you do with a Physics degree?

Physics seeks to understand how the universe works, from the smallest particles to the largest galaxies. Using mathematics as its language, physicists investigate the patterns that govern matter, energy, motion, space, and time.

At Wooster, you'll do more than study scientific principles. You'll work closely with faculty mentors, conduct original research, and apply your knowledge to real scientific questions. Along the way, you'll develop analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills that prepare you for careers in science, engineering, technology, education, finance, and many other fields.

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Understand the Universe

Explore the principles that explain everything from atoms to galaxies.

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Research That Matters

Conduct original research alongside faculty mentors and contribute to new scientific knowledge.

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Solve Complex Problems

Build mathematical, analytical, and technical skills valued across scientific and professional careers.

The Wooster Advantage

Why Study Physics at Wooster?

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Complete a yearlong Senior Independent Study while working one-on-one with a faculty mentor on original research.
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Join a nationally recognized research program whose students have been finalists for the American Physical Society's LeRoy Apker Award for outstanding undergraduate research.
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Learn in small classes while pursuing double majors, pre-professional programs, or other academic interests.
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Join a department with a strong tradition of student achievement, including Goldwater Scholarships and National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships.
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Graduate with the research experience and analytical skills sought by graduate schools and employers alike.
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Featured Courses

Explore the universe through theory, experimentation, and computation.

  • Electronics for Scientists
  • Computational Physics
  • General Relativity
  • Astrophysics
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Nonlinear Dynamics
  • Quantum Mechanics

Academic Opportunities

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Experience the excitement of discovery.

Senior Independent Study is the centerpiece of the Physics major. Working closely with a faculty advisor, you'll spend an entire year investigating a scientific question of your choosing while bringing together the knowledge and skills you've developed throughout the program.

This commitment to undergraduate research has helped Physics students earn national recognition, including finalist honors for the American Physical Society's LeRoy Apker Award, Goldwater Scholarships, and National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships.

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Ready to Explore Physics?

Whether you're fascinated by the mysteries of the universe or excited by solving challenging problems, Physics at Wooster prepares you to ask big questions and discover meaningful answers.

Career Opportunities

Physics graduates develop exceptional analytical, mathematical, and research skills that open doors across science, technology, engineering, business, and education.

Many also continue to graduate or professional school in physics, engineering, and related disciplines.

Key Areas

Graduates pursue careers in:

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Engineering

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Scientific research

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Aerospace

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Government laboratories

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Higher education

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Data science

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Finance

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Technology

Where Our Alumni Go

Physics graduates have built careers with organizations including:

  • NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
  • CERN
  • The Aerospace Corporation
  • Chan Zuckerberg Biohub
  • 3M
  • Thorlabs
  • First Solar
  • U.S. Army Research Laboratory
  • Gecko Robotics
  • Washington University in St. Louis
  • The Ohio State University

Graduates have also built careers in motorsports, science policy, higher education, biomedical research, and industry.

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Scholarships & Student Opportunities

Physics students may be eligible for several departmental scholarships and awards, including:

  • Ann C. Mowery Scholarship
  • Karl T. Compton Scholarship
  • Joseph Albertus Culler Prize in Physics
  • Mahesh K. Garg Prize in Physics
  • Arthur H. Compton Prize in Physics
  • Koontz Summer Research Scholar Award

Students also have a strong history of earning nationally competitive awards, including Goldwater Scholarships and National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships.

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Meet Your Professors

Physics faculty work closely with students through small classes, collaborative research, and Senior Independent Study. From your first courses through your senior year, you'll receive personalized mentorship while investigating meaningful scientific questions and developing the skills to pursue careers in research, industry, and beyond.

Manon Grugel-Watson

Manon Grugel-Watson

Physics Laboratory and Education Coordinator
Cody Leary

Cody Leary

Associate Professor and Department Chair of Physics; Pre-Engineering Advisor Fall 2025
Laura DeGroot

Laura DeGroot

Assistant Professor of Physics
Susan Y. Lehman

Susan Y. Lehman

Victor J. Andrew Professor of Physics; Pre-Engineering Advisor Spring 2026
Niklas Manz

Niklas Manz

The William F. Harn Associate Professor of Physics
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Connect With the Department

Interested in Physics? We'd love to help you learn more about research opportunities, Senior Independent Study, faculty mentorship, and where a Physics degree can take you.  
Contact the Department