Physics (BA/BS)
Take your fascination with our universe and turn it into a career with a degree in physics from East Texas A&M. Studying physics is one way to prepare yourself for an in-demand STEM profession.
The Universe and Beyond
There's a lot to discover in our universe, and we're learning more about it every day. Contemplate the origin and evolution of our world through the Physics program at East Texas A&M. While here, you'll explore the behavior of matter at all levels, from particles to galaxies. Work with our world-class faculty as you conduct research from our observatory or remote telescopes. Located 60 miles outside of Dallas, our rural location provides the richest nights for star exploration and research. STEM professions continue to rise with 8 out of 10 new jobs requiring a science education. Studying physics is one way to market yourself for these professions. Whether you're interested in further academic work or employment in engineering, mathematics, or defense, our degree prepares you for all.
See Yourself Succeed with a Degree In Physics
Innovation and Discovery
Take on our mission to build a better Texas that is eager to compete in an interconnected world with creativity, ethical leadership and imagination. We don’t just discover the future, we make it.
Career Readiness
The College of Science and Engineering is a gateway to in-demand STEM careers projected to make up a significant portion of the U.S. and global economy.
Accomplished Faculty
Shape an innovative framework with an award-winning faculty including four Regents Professors, a highly selective honor for exemplary contributions to their university, community and the State of Texas.
Hands-On Experience
Our faculty will help you tackle complex challenges and discover solutions with hands-on research in various fields.
Focus Your Passion
Our physics department offers four different tracks that cater to your research interests and career goals. We provide instruction in physics, astrophysics, applied physics, astronomy, and computational physics. Discover which program works best for you.
Astrophysics Emphasis
Prepares you for a career and advanced study in astronomy and astrophysics. You’ll take additional courses in observational astronomy, galaxies and cosmology, and stellar structures. Our program provides the foundation in physics and mathematics needed for entry into modern space-related careers such as space science and technology, planetary science and astrobiology.
Biophysics Emphasis
Combines complex problems related to biology with physics and mathematics. This program provides excellent preparation for graduate work in biophysics, bioengineering, biology, physics, chemistry, biochemistry, computational biology, medical physics and neurobiology. In addition, you'll receive a minor in chemistry. We recommend this program to students interested in medical school.
Physics with Teaching Emphasis
Combine your passion for physics and education with our teaching emphasis program. You’ll take additional education courses such as teaching and learning physics, project-based learning in STEM and pedagogy. You’ll also complete a teaching residency in your final semester as part of our education program. When you graduate, you’ll be certified to teach physics at the secondary level (grades 7-12).
Physics (BS)
We recommend this program for those interested in industrial employment or further academic studies. With this degree, you will grasp a solid understanding of the principles and foundations of classical and modern theories of physics. Gain practical experience by utilizing the analytical and modeling tools of physics with experimental opportunities. This program requires a second major or minor.
Faculty Spotlight
Robynne Lock, Ph.D.
I'm always trying to push forward my teaching and make sure the way I teach is grounded in literature and covering problems that need to be addressed.
Kent Montgomery, Ph.D.
Cheri Davis, Ed.D.
Carlos Bertulani, Ph.D.
Our Community
Become a part of the STEM Education Alliance. Four departments have partnered together to provide you with the tools and resources needed to excel in education. Our program offers collegiate-level teaching and tutoring experiences through the Learning Assistant program. You'll also have access to several scholarships designed for STEM majors.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
A degree in physics will offer you the opportunity to:
- Gain a solid understanding of the principles and foundations of classical and modern theories of physics.
- Practice the methods and techniques of experimental physics plus utilize the analytical and modeling tools of physics.
- Develop analytical, problem-solving and communication skills valuable in a wide range of employment areas.
Careers
Physics students are able to apply their in-depth knowledge to labs, research institutes and other related arenas. Broaden your network and gain real-world experience with internships and career opportunities with help from our faculty and staff.
Career Possibilities and Current Median Salaries
US DOL Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2022
Alumni Profiles
Internship opportunities
Internship experience provides the foundation employers are often looking for. Although not required for your degree, internships are an important part of your education experience. These are just a few of the companies that partner with Student Career Preparedness and offer opportunities for East Texas A&M physics students.
What You Will Learn
Work with faculty who are active researchers in nuclear physics, condensed matter physics, organic semiconductor physics, astronomy and astrophysics, and physics education research. You can also take advantage of facilities including our Organic Semiconductor Physics Laboratory, Surface Physics Laboratory, Campus Observatory and research grade telescopes. Located in Arizona, Chile and on the island of La Palma, these telescopes are available via our membership in the SARA Telescope Consortium.
Courses to Prepare You for Your Career
- Foundation courses including Calculus, University Physics and Chemistry
- Core courses including Computational Physics, Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering, Classical Mechanics and Quantum Mechanics
Featured Courses
Undergraduate Program Costs
Program Costs
Tuition and fees for undergraduate students taking 12 credit hours are $4,212 for Texas residents and $9,108 for non-residents.
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- Department of Physics and Astronomy
- 903.886.5488
- 903.886.5480
- [email protected]
- P.O. Box 3011
- Commerce, TX 75429-3011
