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Undergraduate

The Department of Physics at NC State combines the resources of a major research university with the ambience of a small college.

Undergraduate Class

Preparation for Success

Physics provides the conceptual foundation for all other sciences and engineering. Energy, mass, momentum, forces, fields — these ideas form the basis of physical reality. The physicist is trained to see to the heart of a problem and to strip through layers of complexity to reveal the underlying principles with insight and rigor. These skills are important in scientific research and in a variety of careers, from the law office to the boardroom.

Undergraduates in our department receive a high-quality education that equips them with these key skills and prepares them for bright futures. Our expert faculty includes fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and winners of prestigious research awards from organizations like the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Energy. Our ratio of four physics majors to each faculty member allows us to offer small classes taught by faculty, with personal attention and unparalleled opportunities for involvement in research.

During their academic careers, many of our students win national research awards, publish in prestigious journals and hold campus leadership positions before finding successful employment or pursuing graduate study.

Well-Rounded Education

We want to help all students at NC State expand their knowledge of physics.

Our department is home to approximately 200 undergraduate physics majors. We also serve thousands of students each year across the university through introductory-level courses for non–majors. Some of these students pursue a physics minor in support of a degree outside our department.

In every case, our department is committed to providing excellent instruction and the support you need to reach your academic goals.