Physics

Whether our physics graduates decide to jump into their career right after graduation or expand their skill sets in graduate school, their light is in high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage for physicists is $155,680 per year.

There’s a reason why: Employers know physics graduates shine brightly and with versatility. Our alumni can quickly analyze data, model processes, program, and adapt to new information. Each of these skills are highly sought after across a wide range of technical fields.

Careers in Physics:

• Scientist
• Data analyst
• Information technology (IT) specialist
• Physicist
• Physics teacher
• Programmer
• Researcher

The Valparaiso University Experience – colloquially referred to as VUE – is our University-wide general education core. Here, students build up skills in communication, critical thinking, and cultural awareness. With those pillars in place, students are ready to take their passion and understanding of the natural world a step further.

Our comprehensive program is designed to help future physicists radiate on their quest to explore even the most minute inner workings of our reality. Our students gain real experience studying real science while making real discoveries, with topics including nuclear physics, quantum mechanics, condensed matter, and much more.

In this, Valpo uniquely offers a bachelor of arts in physics and a bachelor of science in physics. It is recommended that students who wish to go on to graduate school pursue a bachelor of science in physics rather than a bachelor of arts; a student will choose a bachelor of arts instead only when they wish to add on a non-science minor and do not see themselves continuing their education at the graduate level.

Students can further personalize their academic experience with two concentrations: a fundamental physics concentration or an applied physics concentration. A fundamental physics concentration is recommended for students who plan to go on to graduate studies; an applied physics concentration is advised for students who plan to seek employment right after graduation.

Note:
*Only one credit from PHYS 492/ASTR 492 can be used toward the elective requirement.

This minor offers a deeper understanding of the basic principles of physics than the introductory course provides.

This applied-science minor focuses on the action of forces on bodies and the properties of matter. It is useful for students planning careers in engineering and industry and may include one or more courses in the College of Engineering.

This applied-science minor focuses on courses of special interest in the design and development of electronic devices. Some required courses are taught in the College of Engineering.