Physics

Physics: Major, Minor

The physics curriculum provides students with a thorough theoretical and experimental foundation in the principles of physics. Strengthened by exploration of the liberal arts, graduates of the program understand not just the science of physics, but also why it matters in today’s world.

With a low student-to-faculty ratio, physics students are assured of small classes and individual attention. In addition to regular course offerings, majors are able to take advantage of tutorials, independent studies, or supervised research with faculty members on topics related to their ongoing work. Members of the department are engaged in active research programs that cover a broad range of areas, including atomic physics, condensed matter physics, particle physics, and astrophysics. Graduates are prepared to pursue additional studies in physics, applied physics, engineering, medicine, or law; or entry-level positions in research, technology, business, teaching, and other fields.

Physics Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement

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Program Highlights

Students gain knowledge in all the major areas of modern physics — including thermal physics, classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics — through coursework frequently coupled with hands-on lab experience. Advanced electives offered by the department include:

  • Optics with laboratory
  • Electronics with laboratory
  • Introduction to astrophysics
  • Quantum Computing
  • Advanced topics in physics
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Research

Take part in theoretical and experimental projects in astrophysics, atomic physics, condensed matter physics, and particle physics.

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Engineering

The 3-2 Program in Engineering provides the opportunity to combine the study of physics with training in engineering.

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After Graduation

Find out what you can do with a physics major, and check out some recent grad school placements.

Physics News

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Academic Conference Goes Virtual in Response to Pandemic
As faculty members across the College worked to transition their courses to a distance-learning format this semester, one of the many logistical challenges to tackle was the annual Academic Conference, where students present the results of their independent work in …
Shreyashi Chakdar, Liat Spiro, Conor Carney, Elizabeth Spragins, Sarah Klotz, Nina Barzachka and Amy Finstein stand in Memorial Plaza
Holy Cross Welcomes Seven Tenure-Track Faculty Members for the 2019-20 Academic Year
Seven faculty members at College of the Holy Cross have been welcomed into tenure-track positions for the 2019-20 academic year. They will each join a different department: economics, English, history, physics, political science, Spanish and visual arts. The new faculty …
students work on a farm
Learning Outside the Classroom at Holy Cross
Not all education takes place in an academic building — particularly at College of the Holy Cross, where outside-the-classroom learning opportunities range from local to global. Whether you’re contributing to community engagement or diving into summer research or spending a …