Physics

The Department of Physics of Saint Joseph’s University offers students comprehensive and flexible curricula  in Physics and Engineering Physics. These programs prepare the students in multiple choice careers in many different areas.

The Department of Physics at Saint Joseph’s University has developed a research-oriented culture for both its faculty and students. Most students will engage in research, alongside faculty mentors, at some point during their four years.  The ability to put into practice what is learned in the classroom is paramount to the growth of the scientist and the professional. In the research laboratory, the student will learn to design and perform experiments, to analyze data using computational methods, and draw appropriate conclusions. Students will also be exposed to the interfaces of physics where physics meets biology, chemistry and engineering; to that end, the student of physics will witness how the methods of physics are central to addressing key problems in the disciplines of engineering, chemistry and biology.

Undergraduates participate in research in three different ways. First, they may decide to take research for academic credit. Within the major, students take three physics electives and one or more of these may be used to perform scientific research under the guidance of our physics faculty. Second, students may opt to do research as a Summer Scholar. Saint Joseph’s University is well known for its 10 week Summer Scholars Research Program. Historically, the Physics Department, through the generosity of its alumni, Dean and Provost, has been able to provide stipends for all physics students who have wanted to do summer research. Students selected to participate in the Summer Scholars Program not only receive a stipend but also are provided low-cost housing by the University. Lastly, students may opt to volunteer in a laboratory at SJU or elsewhere.

At its core, the mission of the Department of Physics at Saint Joseph’s University is to educate students who are broadly trained in the discipline of physics, critical thinking and complex problem solving. They will have the ability to attack problems and enter professional areas, not only in the field of physics, but also in the areas of biology, chemistry, the applied sciences and engineering.  Graduates of the department will be able to succeed in a wide range of professional careers where the principles of physics and critical thinking skills associated with a degree in physics are used on a routine basis.

In the spirit of the mission of the university, we believe that our students, through the liberal arts training gleaned from the Cornerstone Core Curriculum (CCC) , in particular the "ethical dimension in learning", and the concentration curriculum in physics, will become lifelong learners and will use their knowledge and education for the betterment of humanity.