Explore Physics at Gonzaga
Develop knowledge, skills and perspective through the study of physics, grounded in rigorous academics, applied learning and preparation for leadership and service.
Exploring the Universe Through Physics
Physics students and faculty are driven by a deep curiosity to try to understand the behavior and interaction of things—from subatomic particles to galaxies, as well as on the everyday scale of our human lives. We build and test models for those behaviors and interactions, continually increasing our understanding of the Universe and its constituent parts, as well as driving technological development through the new understandings we develop.
Degrees in Physics at Gonzaga University
In the Department of Physics at Gonzaga University, you have the opportunity to tailor your educational path, selecting from among five concentrations within our Bachelor of Science degree, as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree and a minor.
Bachelor of Science in Physics: Five Concentrations
All the concentrations for the Bachelor of Science in Physics share a broad base of foundational courses, to equip students with the knowledge and skills crucial to understanding physical systems. Specialization occurs in upper-level classes which will deepen your understanding of your chosen area of Physics. These five concentrations are:
- Fundamental Physics, for students who wish to delve deeper into the mysteries of classical, relativistic, and quantum phenomena.
- Astrophysics, for students who wish to explore the development of and interactions in the cosmos.
- Applied Physics, for students who wish to apply physics to current technological challenges in industry.
- Medical Physics, for students who wish to apply physics knowledge to the human body and healthcare.
- Materials Physics, for students who wish to investigate the properties of the matter that surrounds us.
This solid foundation not only prepares you for further study in physics but also for a variety of related disciplines and careers.
Bachelor of Arts in Physics: Flexibility and Opportunity
For students who prefer a more flexible approach to their studies, the Bachelor of Arts degree offers the same essential foundations as the Bachelor of Science but allows more freedom with upper-level coursework. This flexibility may include pursuing a second major, teaching certification, or other interests, opening doors to diverse career possibilities in education, business, law, history or philosophy of science, policy, journalism, and beyond.
Personalized Learning with Faculty Mentors
What truly sets the Department of Physics apart is our commitment to providing a personalized education. Our students benefit from close interactions with our dedicated faculty in small class settings, where they explore advanced physics concepts and conduct experiments in our laboratories. Additionally, computational skills are woven into the fabric of our program, ensuring that our graduates are adept at applying data analysis and computational techniques to their studies.
Preparing for Impactful Careers in Physics and Beyond
Throughout your time here, you will not only learn about physics but also the practice of science itself. From the earliest stages of inquiry to experimental design, data analysis, and the compelling presentation of complex findings, our students are prepared to tackle the most significant challenges in the world of physics and beyond.