Physics, B.A.

Physics, B.A.

Program Overview

PLNU’s Physics B.A. equips you to explore the fundamental principles that govern the universe while learning how to apply mathematical reasoning and computational techniques to real-world problems. From designing experiments to analyzing data and communicating complex concepts, you’ll develop both technical expertise and problem-solving skills in a collaborative, ethical, and supportive environment. This degree is designed for students who want to combine physics with another field and is well suited for pre-law and pre-medical students.

Why Choose Physics at PLNU?

Career Ready Capstone Experience

Physics majors have several options for their senior capstone experience. They can work on a two-semester research project, they participate in a two-semester data science/machine learning project, or they can participate with engineering students as part of a two-semester senior design project team. All of these opportunities allow students to combine the knowledge that they have from their coursework and use it to build a final product. Our recent senior engineering projects have been done in partnership with mission organizations.

Preparation for Diverse Fields

Physics provides a foundation for diverse career paths. PLNU’s program emphasizes the problem-solving, analytical, and quantitative skills valued in research, teaching, technology, and healthcare.

Preparation for Teaching 

The B.A. degree provides preparation in physics, mathematics, computing and engineering which equips you to become a secondary school teacher. Students often combine this degree with a degree in Mathematics so that they can teach more than one subject in High School.

Infographic in PLNU colors that is horizontally split down the middle with info. The top slide reads, "Degree Flexibility: Students can choose to combine Phsyics with another major." Bottom slide reads, "Preparation for Teaching: Students benefit from a broad curriculum that prepares them to become a secondary school teacher."
Enhanced graphic of copy in the color green. Text reads: "Dedicated faculty advisors serve as mentors to keep students on track for graduation and career success."

Personalized Mentorship 

Small classes and one-on-one faculty advising ensure you’re supported academically and professionally. Faculty also help you explore career options, graduate school preparation, and networking opportunities through departmental career events. 

Faith + Future Focus 

As you grow in technical expertise, you'll also be challenged to explore how your work in physics can serve people, honor your calling, and make a meaningful impact. 

Community Connections 

The department maintains strong connections with local organizations, offering students access to entry-level job opportunities, and hands-on projects, including a partnership with the nearby Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific. 

What You’ll Study

You’ll begin with foundational training in physics and mathematics, covering areas such as:

  • Mechanics
  • Electricity and Magnetism
  • Optics and Modern Physics

As you progress, your studies deepen into advanced topics such as:

  • Quantum Mechanics
  • Thermodynamics

You will also have room in your schedule to take classes from another area of study.

Graduates of PLNU’s Physics program pursue careers in:

  • High School Teacher
  • Clinical Scientist
  • Patent Law
  • Medicine

With its strong foundation in theory, experimentation, and problem-solving, PLNU’s Physics B.A. prepares you to explore the natural world and apply your knowledge in meaningful ways.

Stories of Science

PLNU Alum Micah Karahadian Awarded National Science Foundation Fellowship
Matthew Sailer Leads Climatology for the U.S. Navy
Faculty Spotlight: Michelle Chen, Ph.D.
Erika Weisdorfer: Engineering Good

Science in Action

Alumni Voices

"Prepared for the Next Step"
"Solving Complex Problems"

Physics Snapshots

Discover More
Videos (2)
Articles (6)
Quotes (2)
Pictures (3)
PLNU Alum Micah Karahadian Awarded National Science Foundation Fellowship Karahadian’s ultimate goal is to either teach or run a research lab at a university. He believes that experience in national labs enriches teachers and prepares them to mentor the next generation of scientists. Discover
Matthew Sailer Leads Climatology for the U.S. Navy Alum Matthew Sailer combines his love for science and his country by serving in the U.S. Navy in climatology. Discover
Faculty Spotlight: Michelle Chen, Ph.D. To explain her field of study, Dr. Michelle Chen, PLNU professor of physics and engineering, refers to a ball on her desk. It is hand-sized and made up of hexagons, like a soccer ball you can see all the way through. She points to each part and explains: each intersection of lines symbolizes a carbon Discover
Erika Weisdorfer: Engineering Good While she was a student at PLNU, Erika Weisdorfer felt a calling to use her engineering physics degree to help others. Discover
Teaching Machines to Learn Not only was she pushing herself outside of her comfort zone exploring this new field, Dotter was also getting to ask questions of purpose and meaning, questions at the intersection of both computer science and biology. Discover
Puzzling the Mysteries of the Universe: P.A. Trisha Jansma Puts the Pieces Together Trisha Jansma has put her technical and people skills to work in a long career with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory that has spanned diverse roles and projects. Discover
Prepared for the Next Step
"When I went to graduate school, I was intimidated because I knew I would be going up against students from really prestigious schools. But I quickly discovered that my educational background was just as good if not better than the other students. I was really impressed to discover that my physics degree from PLNU stacked up very well against those from universities across the country."
Elinor Irish Physics B.S.
Solving Complex Problems
"Having a background in physics and math has helped in my career in engineering. My degree at PLNU taught me how to solve complex problems, and I have used that skill set to solve technical and problems for my business."
Jerry Goodwin Physics and Mathematics B.S.

Course List

For information about the courses required for the Physics, B.A. program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information

Major Map

Start Application

Are you ready to take the next step to begin your PLNU journey? Whether you’re a high school senior, college transfer student, or international student, find out what we’re looking for in our applicants and how you can apply.

Apply Now

Student Support

For most students, the transition into college life is one full of adjustments. There is the excitement of newfound freedoms, but also some uncertainty as you begin to make choices and take responsibility for your own future. 

At PLNU, we’re committed to supporting you — academically, professionally, spiritually, personally — so that you may be successful both in your time as a student and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

Student Support

Career Opportunities

Physics is at the root of understanding nature and the world around us. With a physics degree from PLNU, you’ll be ready to explore and take on a variety of positions in the science, academic, and research world. The tools you learn in the physics program will prepare you to make your mark as an educator or innovator in the STEM industry. 

What can you do with a physics degree?

Many graduates of the PLNU physics program have gone on to work at nationally renowned medical and research companies such as Johnson & Johnson and BD, while others have found success in the workforce through engineering positions at companies such as ViaSat and NIWC SPAWAR, just to name a few. Most graduates pursue an advanced degree which prepares them to work in a variety of fields such as those listed below:

Technical Physicist

A Technical Physicist applies principles of physics to solve practical problems, develop new technologies, and support scientific research through experimentation, modeling, and analysis. They design experiments, analyze data, and collaborate with engineers and researchers to advance technological or industrial applications. Technical Physicists can work in research labs, technology companies, government agencies, or academic institutions, with opportunities in aerospace, energy, healthcare, and applied physics industries.

  • Median Pay: $166,290/year
  • Number of Jobs: 26,400
  • Job Outlook (2024–2034): +4%
  • Employment Change: +1,000 jobs
View Full BLS Profile

Industrial Engineer

An Industrial Engineer designs, improves, and optimizes systems, processes, and operations to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance productivity. They analyze workflows, implement process improvements, and integrate people, machines, and technology for better performance. Industrial Engineers can work in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, consulting firms, or technology companies, with opportunities in both corporate and project-based environments.

  • Median Pay: $101,140/year
  • Number of Jobs: 351,100
  • Job Outlook (2024–2034): +11%
  • Employment Change: +38,500 jobs
View Full BLS Profile

Question and explore the unknown of biological processes and science with a degree in physics

The Physics B.A. from PLNU prepares you with experience and knowledge to be an innovator in the science or medical industries. Whether you pursue teaching, research, or engineering, you’ll be ready with the insight gained at PLNU. 

Apply to PLNU today or get connected with one of our counselors for additional support and to answer any questions you may have.

Department Faculty

Get Involved

A group of students work on their assignment in class.

Physics and Engineering Student Research

Students who pursue a major in the physics and engineering department have a unique opportunity to conduct research alongside experienced faculty.

Students drop a protected egg from a balcony onto the concrete below as part of a science experiment

Society of Physics Students (SPS)

The Society of Physics Students is a professional association specifically designed for students.

Students walk into the science building on PLNU's campus.

Life in the Physics & Engineering Department

In the Department of Physics & Engineering, there are plenty of opportunities to learn while building friendships and having fun.