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.
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Summer Research Opportunities at Utica University
The Department of Physics at Utica university offers a summer research opportunity for high school students and undergraduate students during the summer 2024. 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
- Undergraduate applicants should be Physics majors or minors.
- High School applicants should be starting their junior or senior year of high school during the application period, and have completed at least one physics course with a minimum score of 85% or higher (students who took an AP Physics course will be preferable).
Interested students should email Prof. Hava Turkakin at haturkak@utica.edu with attachments of a statement of purpose letter and high school transcript.
Vision
At the Department of Physics at Utica University, we value and nurture each student in our programs. We empower students to build thriving careers grounded in a deep understanding of physics knowledge and related skills. We are committed to fostering robust reasoning abilities while developing effective communication, persistence, and dedication to inclusive collaboration. Our graduates emerge as versatile problem solvers, equipped not only with the technical expertise to excel in diverse fields but also with the interpersonal skills and resilience to navigate an ever-evolving global landscape.
The 3 + 2 transfer option in engineering allows students to earn a B. A. in Physics at Utica University and a second bachelor's degree (typically a B. S. or a B. E.) in engineering at another school. While at Utica, students have the advantages of small classes and close contact with faculty members as they master their foundation courses in science, mathematics, and introductory engineering. When this coursework is completed, along with general education requirements for a total of at least 96 hours, the student will transfer to an engineering school where they enroll in engineering courses (specifics will depend upon program). Upon the completion of 32 hours at the transfer institution (and receipt of an official transcript), the student will earn their B. A. in physics from Utica University. When the student has satisfied the requirements from the engineering school, they will earn a second degree in engineering. Students completing this program will have earned both a liberal arts degree and an engineering degree. The 3 + 2 program combines the strengths of a well-rounded liberal arts education at Utica and the specialization one can gain from an Engineering institution.
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
- Associate Professor of Physics
- Associate 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
Celebrating Utica University’s Class of 2025 at 76th Commencement Ceremonies
46th Annual Utica University Regional Science Fair Welcomes Middle and High School Scientists from Across the Area
Utica University Rising Sophomore Accepted into 2024 Summer Undergraduate Research Program at UMass Chan Medical School
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