Physics
About This Program
You’re curious about the world around you. You're a problem-solver and don't back down from a challenge. You’re fascinated by questions about the Universe—and our place within it. Physics may be the major or minor for you.
Department
Why Utica University
Utica University's physics courses offer a robust introduction to the science of the physical world. From the basic structure of atoms and matter to the complex interactions of galaxies, our program provides students with an opportunity to explore the fundamental nature of the physical universe. With accomplished faculty members and an individualized learning environment, the Utica physics program is an excellent choice for students considering graduate school as well as careers in research, teaching, engineering, or other areas that demand a strong foundation in physical science.
The mission of the Physics Department is to serve the entire Utica University community. With a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum that offers several degree options, along with special transfer study opportunities, the Physics program prepares physics majors, minors, and pre-engineering students for fulfilling career opportunities. The Physics program prepares students in other majors, including chemistry, biology, mathematics, computer science, construction management, and health sciences, with the background in physics they need to be successful in their fields. The Physics Department is committed to providing provocative core courses that fulfill the general science requirements for non-science students.
If you would like to learn more about this program, check out the Physics Department webpage. The physics department has an active Society of Physics Students (SPS)and offers a variety of opportunities for research and outreach activities.
“I Need my Space” Program at Utica University
The Department of Physics at Utica university offers a summer research opportunity for high school students during the summer 2023. The successful candidate will do research on Sun-Earth interactions with Prof. Hava Turkakin. This research opportunity is supported by National Science Foundation
(NSF).
General Requirements
- The applicants should be in their junior or senior year of high school during the application period.
- Have a minimum of GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale, although exceptions may be granted.
- Completed at least one physics course with a minimum score of 85% or higher (students who took an AP Physics course will be preferable).
Diversity and Equity Requirements
- Identify as one of the racial and ethnic groups: Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian or Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiin and other Pacific Islanders, or from any refugee groups in the greater Utica area.
- Individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, such as those who are currently are in foster care, eligible for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program, have/had no parents or legal guardians etc.
Interested students should email Prof. Hava Turkakin at haturkak@utica.edu with attachments of a statement of purpose letter and high school transcript.
NOTE: The exact start date and payment will be subject to the availability of funding.
The 3 - 2 transfer option in engineering provides the basic courses typically found in the first years of engineering programs. Students have the advantages of small classes and close contact with the faculty as they master their foundation courses in science, mathematics, and introductory engineering at Utica University, along with core courses, for a total of at least 96 hours. With this coursework completed, students transfer to an engineering school where they take junior-level engineering courses. Upon the completion of 32 hours at the transfer college (and receipt of an official transcript), students will earn a B.A. in physics from Utica University. When the students have satisfied the requirements from the engineering school, typically after another year of study there, they will earn a second degree, in engineering. In effect, one year of college work counts for the degree at two institutions, and students will have a liberal arts degree in addition to the engineering degree. This degree should be considered by those seeking a career in technical management.
Physics at Utica
Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better
Career Opportunities
Investing in the Future
Two Degree Options
What You'll Learn
Utica University’s flexible program fits a broad range of professional outcomes, with options for both bachelor of science and bachelor of arts degrees:
- Bachelor of Science degree - designed for students planning on attending graduate school and on careers in research or engineering;
- Student Learning Goals (B.S.)
- Demonstrate conceptual, theoretical, and practical knowledge of classical mechanics topics
- Demonstrate conceptual, theoretical, and practical knowledge of Electricity and Magnetism topics
- Demonstrate conceptual, theoretical, and practical knowledge in Quantum and Modern Physics
- Student Learning Goals (B.S.)
- Bachelor of Arts degree - designed for students planning to work in business or government in positions requiring a background in the physical sciences, and for students planning on teaching physics or physical science in primary or secondary school.
- Student Learning goals (B.A.):
- Demonstrate conceptual, theoretical, and practical knowledge, including hands-on experience, of classical mechanics topics
- Demonstrate conceptual, theoretical, and practical knowledge, including hands-on experience, of Electricity and Magnetism topics
- Demonstrate conceptual, theoretical, and practical knowledge, including hands-on experience, in Quantum and Modern Physics
- Student Learning goals (B.A.):
Physics Faculty
- Assistant Professor of Physics
- Assistant Professor of Physics
- Adjunct Professor of Physics
- Assistant Professor of Physics
A Degree That Works
Recent graduates of the Utica University physics program have gone on to complete advanced degrees (in physics or engineering) at a number of nationally renowned universities including Syracuse University, the University of Pittsburgh, SUNY Albany, Clarkson, and others. Graduates of the physics program have taken leadership positions at:
- Air Force Research Lab
- Naval Surface Warfare Center
- James Madison University
- ConMed Corporation
- INFICON, Inc
Making Her Mark in the Research Universe
Brittany Vanderhoof loves tackling the big questions. And for a physics student who’s always been “obsessed with space,” those big questions go beyond planet Earth—and even beyond our solar system. Vanderhoof has spent most of her Utica career studying galaxy formation.
READ MOREScience at Utica University
"A sense of pride and accomplishment" - 2023 Outstanding Senior Isabelle LaBelle
44th Annual Utica University Regional Science Fair Welcomes Middle and High School Scientists from Across the Area
Social Work: Dr. Sarah Keesom, students, make surprising discoveries about social interaction and health
Related Programs
