Department of Physics and Engineering

Do you like to understand how things work? Are you good at math and science and a curious and creative person? If so, engineering might be a good career match for you. Engineers solve problems using math and scientific principles. Engineers often focus in specific areas, such as electrical, mechanical or structural engineering. One specialized area is engineering physics, which focuses especially on the use of math and physics to solve problems. Examples of research areas in engineering physics include robotics and thermodynamics.

Overview

If you are interested in a career in engineering, Point Loma’s Department of Physics and Engineering offers a quality education in one of the best possible environments. Here you can complete a major in engineering physics that will prepare you for graduate school or for work in a number of applied engineering fields. PLNU’s laboratories have been remodeled and tens of thousands of dollars have been invested into state-of-the-art equipment.

One of the most valuable resources offered at PLNU is the practical work experience students have the opportunity to gain next door to the university at the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) of the U.S. Navy. Many students work part-time in computer aided design (CAD), electronics, and computer science applications. Not only is this a rewarding experience with good pay, it also leads to a government security clearance that is very useful when applying for jobs in defense industries after graduation.

Special Features:

• One-on-one instruction in small classes
• Hands-on experience with the research-grade equipment
• Opportunities for summer research at major universities and government agencies
• Internships through Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) of the U.S. Navy and other government and private sector opportunities
• On-campus research opportunities in mobile robotics and electron excitation of atoms

Since as an engineering physics major, you will focus on electronic circuit and computer hardware design, you will have the option to attend graduate school or to enter the job market in industry or government immediately after graduation. A high percentage of PLNU’s engineering physics alums attend graduate school in mechanical, electrical and computer engineering, physics, or health physics. Most receive full tuition grants and stipends. Several have even gone on to medical school, law school, and graduate school in other disciplines.