Department of Physics

One reason to study physics is because it is fascinating to learn how nature works! If you tend to be curious about the workings of natural phenomena (for example, planetary orbits, lightning, how atoms work, radioactivity, how lasers work), physics is for you! Physics challenges our imaginations with concepts like general relativity, time dilation, wavelike properties of matter, and entangled particles.

Physics leads to discoveries that bring life-changing technologies (like electricity, generators, nuclear energy, computers, lasers, and smart phones with GPS). Physicist are currently working to solve challenging problems like curing cancer and developing sustainable energy.

Ultimately, the value of a Bachelors in Physics lies in its ability to cultivate adaptable thinkers who can apply a fundamental understanding of the world to solve the complex problems of today and tomorrow. If you aspire to pursue an exciting degree in a field that will challenge and inspire you throughout your career, become a Physics major today and the Department of Physics at MSU Denver will help you pave the way.

• Small classes – our upper-division courses typically have enrollments under 10 students. These classes allow for individual attention and innovative teaching pedagogies.
• Our faculty are very enthusiastic about teaching and want you to succeed. Our faculty are very accessible outside of class for helping with coursework or for advising.
• Our small department and active Society of Physics students provides a nurturing and collaborative community.
• There are multiple opportunities for research with faculty in the areas of observational astronomy, theoretical astronomy, and solid-state physics.
• Our students have a strong track record of acceptance to graduate schools and industrial jobs.

We offer the best value for your education dollars.

What can you do with your Physics degree?

A Bachelor’s degree in Physics provides a unique and powerful foundation for a wide range of careers. As a Physics major, you will develop important skills such as the ability to think critically and objectively.  Physicists are known for their ability to solve novel problems. The advanced mathematical methods, computational modeling, experimental techniques, and data analysis equip our graduates with a versatile skill set highly valued in many professional fields, both in academia as well as in the technological industry.

The skills gained from a physics degree open doors to a surprisingly diverse array of careers. While a student may choose to pursue graduate studies in physics and become a researcher or professor, the degree’s value extends far beyond academia. Roughly half of our graduates go on to work in applied fields such as computer programming, engineering, or data science and finance.

For More Information on Careers in Physics, visit Careers