Physics and Engineering

Mission Statement

The Physics and Engineering Department at PLNU provides strong programs of study in the fields of Physics and Engineering. Our students are well prepared for graduate studies and careers in scientific and engineering fields. We emphasize a collaborative learning environment which allows students to thrive academically, build personal confidence, and develop interpersonal skills. We provide a Christian environment for students to learn values and judgment and pursue integration of modern scientific knowledge and Christian faith.

Four programs of study are provided:

• B.S. degree in Physics
• B.S. degree in Engineering Physics, with emphases in Mechanics and Electrodynamics
• B.S. degree in Physics
• Minor in Physics

Purposes

• To prepare students for graduate studies in physics or engineering;
• To prepare students for a career in research or teaching; 
• To prepare students for employment in various fields of applied physics and engineering; 
• To satisfy pre-professional requirements for students choosing to attend engineering or architectural schools.

Tradition of Excellence

The Department of Physics and Engineering offers a quality education in one of the best possible environments. The Physics and Engineering curriculum places PLNU at the cutting edge of physics instruction. Recently, the laboratories have been remodeled and tens of thousands of dollars have been invested into state-of-the-art equipment. One of the advantages of PLNU is the ability to provide students with one-on-one instruction in smaller-sized classes, which means more time to talk with the faculty and more hands-on experience with the research-grade 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 a good salary; it also leads to a government security clearance which is very useful when applying for jobs in defense industries after graduation. Another tradition that has been established in the department is the acceptance of the Junior Engineering Physics and Physics majors into summer research programs at major universities and government agencies. These summer research experiences provide an opportunity for the members of the junior class to begin establishing professional contacts with individuals around the country and significantly enhancing their entrance into the graduate school of choice.

Career Opportunities

Most Physics majors continue their education in graduate school and eventually become research scientists or teachers. The Engineering Physics majors focus on electronic circuit and computer hardware design. Graduates with this major have the option to attend graduate school or enter the job market in industry or government immediately after graduation. Point Loma offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Physics as well as a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics.

Majors
Engineering Physics
     Emphases
     Specialization in Electrodynamics
     Specialization in Mechanics

Physics

Minor
Physics

Course Descriptions
Engineering Courses
Physics Courses

Faculty

Michelle H. Chen, Ph.D.
University of Pennsylvania

Kendall E. Mallory, Ph.D., Chair
University of California, Riverside

Dee G. Puntenney, Ph.D
Purdue University

Paul Schmelzenbach, Ph.D.
Oregon State University