Physics, the most fundamental science, tries to explain how the
physical universe behaves. Undergraduate physics study provides an ideal background for
personal growth and for many types of careers: scientific, business, medical,
law, education, computer, etc.; the AIP
site has recent information about job opportunities for physics majors. The AU
Physics Department awards bachelor degrees to students completing the physics
curriculum. Physics majors can choose a curriculum to prepare for physics
graduate school, or a more flexible program geared towards preparing for a
career in nuclear medicine, physical chemistry, astrophysics, law, business, or
as a lab technician. We have a very high ratio of faculty members to physics majors which
means each student receives individual attention usually available at much
smaller schools. As an undergraduate physics major, you can take courses on
sub-atomic particles, the origins of the universe, super-cooled
superconductivity, and superheated plasmas. Physics majors are exposed to faculty performing world class
research in several areas and many undergraduates
research physics questions throughout the year.
Several features of the AU physics program make it ideal for an
undergraduate physics education. We have a very active chapter of the
Society of
Physics Students which provides support and opportunities for majors; for the
past several years, the SPS has organized the building of a vehicle for the
national Moon Buggie competition. Also, Auburn University runs very active
Honors Program which provides smaller and more challenging classes. As a last
example, AU is listed among the nation's 100 most wired universities by Yahoo!
Internet Life.
The physics department welcomes visits by prospective undergraduate physics majors. Arrangements can be made for lab tours and visits with faculty and often part of the travel costs can be supplied by the physics department. If you would like to visit the physics department, contact Prof. J.D. Perez to arrange an available day.
Curriculum for Undergraduate Physics Majors
Scholarships for Undergraduate Physics Majors
AU CubeSat: Putting a student built satellite in earth orbit