Physics Major

Physicists study the properties and behavior of matter and energy in a wide variety of contexts, ranging from the sub-microscopic particles from which all ordinary matter is made (particle physics) to the behavior of the Universe as a whole (cosmology). Physics primarily is the science that deals with exploring the Rules of Nature. The fundamental understanding of nature that comes from the study of physics is central to all of the natural sciences, applied sciences and technology; and, thus, profoundly affects the life of every human along with their environment.

The Department of Physics of Saint Joseph’s University offers students a comprehensive and flexible curriculum in the discipline of physics.  The program offers several advisory tracks (Materials Science and Nanotechnology, Astrophysics, Biophysics, Computational Physics and Engineering, Medical Physics, Physics Education ) which will allow students to specialize in variety of areas and prepare for a range of careers. The program begins with a core grouping of  three introductory physics courses (freshman and sophomore years) in the foundations of classical Newtonian mechanics and Maxwellian electricity and magnetism, geometrical optics, thermodynamics and fluids  along with a one-semester program in nonclassical (modern) physics: this course, based on developments in physics that occurred in the first quarter of the twentieth century, introduce students to quantum theory and special relativity. Each of the introductory physics courses is accompanied by a laboratory , which not only complements the didactic material but also trains the student in the methodology of doing experimental physics. During this time, students master the language of physics, i.e., mathematics. Students take three semesters of calculus, Differential Equations and Introduction to Linear Algebra. In addition, they are  exposed to modern computational techniques in Numerical Analysis. These physics and mathematics courses provide the foundation to explore a vast array of upper division courses, including physics electives in particular areas of interest. The upper-level courses include the study of classical mechanics, statistical mechanics , electricity and magnetism, quantum mechanics, and experimental methods of physics. Elective topics include solid state physics, biophysics, nuclear and particle physics, computational physics, astrophysics, physics of fluids, quantum materials,network science, biophysics of the brain, chaos and  complex systems and more.

The Department of Physics at Saint Joseph’s University has developed a research-oriented culture for both its faculty and students. 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.