Physics, B.S.

Physics, B.S.

Program Overview

PLNU’s Physics B.S. offers a rigorous and comprehensive foundation in classical and modern physics, advanced mathematics, and computational methods. Designed for students pursuing graduate study or highly technical careers, the B.S. emphasizes depth, lab experience, and research. You’ll learn to design and conduct experiments, analyze and interpret data, and communicate complex ideas — all in a collaborative and supportive environment.

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.

Graduate School and Career Preparation

The B.S. track provides greater depth in upper-division physics and mathematics, preparing you for advanced study or technical careers in science, technology, or engineering.

Preparation for Teaching 

The B.S. degree provides preparation in physics, mathematics, computing and engineering which equips you to become a secondary school teacher.

Infographic in PLNU colors that is split down the middle with info. Left side reads, "Preparation for Graduate School or Industry: A broad curriculum and research opportunities prepare students for graduate school and careers that require advanced training." Right side 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

In addition to general education and core mathematics, you’ll complete extensive coursework in physics, including:

  • Mechanics
  • Electricity and Magnetism
  • Optics and Modern Physics
  • Quantum Mechanics
  • Thermodynamics
  • Computer Programming

The B.S. also requires additional upper-division courses in mathematics and physics, ensuring robust preparation for graduate-level study and research.

Graduates of PLNU’s Physics program pursue careers in:

  • Climatology
  • Education
  • Clinical Scientist
  • Industrial Engineer
  • Materials Science
  • Medical Fields
  • High School Teacher 

With its advanced coursework, research opportunities, and emphasis on rigor, PLNU’s Physics B.S. prepares you to thrive in graduate school or pursue technical careers that apply physics to today’s most complex challenges.

Stories in 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 (4)
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.S. 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.

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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

PLNU’s Physics B.S. will guide you in your journey to become a leading professional in the STEM field. A degree in physics will provide you with the foundation you need to excel in an additional advanced degree or any number of careers that need experts in this field. 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 innovator, educator, or any other vocation you choose to pursue. 

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 scientific fields such as those listed below:

Astrophysicist

An Astrophysicist studies the physical properties, behavior, and origins of celestial bodies and the universe, using observation, experimentation, and mathematical modeling to advance scientific understanding. They analyze data from telescopes, simulations, and space missions to explore phenomena such as stars, galaxies, black holes, and cosmic evolution. Astrophysicists can work in research institutions, universities, government space agencies, or observatories, with opportunities in academic research, space exploration, and scientific consulting.

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

Clinical Scientist

A Clinical Scientist applies scientific principles and laboratory techniques to diagnose, monitor, and improve patient health, often specializing in areas like medical physics, pathology, or biomedical testing. They conduct experiments, analyze clinical data, and collaborate with healthcare teams to support accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. Clinical Scientists can work in hospitals, research labs, diagnostic centers, or government health agencies, with opportunities in healthcare, medical research, and clinical innovation.

  • Median Pay: $100,590/year
  • Number of Jobs: 165,300
  • Job Outlook (2024–2034): +9%
  • Employment Change: +14,300 jobs
View Full BLS Profile

Technical Physicists

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

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

The Physics B.S. 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 you gained on PLNU’s campus. 

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

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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.