BA/BS in Physics

The physics major emphasizes hands-on learning, with students in laboratories and research projects from their first year. Study spans atomic theory through quantum thermodynamics, and research topics include renewable energy and molecular lattice systems. Students pick one of three tracks: comprehensive, applied, or general. Facilities include access to a high-field pulsed magnet laboratory, and electives cover areas such as computer simulation of physical systems and information theory. A 3/2 engineering program pairs a Clark degree with an engineering degree from Columbia University, and accelerated 4+1 options lead to master's study after one additional year. The department has a distinguished history that includes Albert Michelson and Robert Goddard. Prospective students can request information, view the major map, and browse physics courses on the department pages.