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About the BS in Physics Degree

Why Study Physics at Cedarville?

If you have a love for both mathematics and the sciences, Cedarville’s distinctly Christian BS in physics degree may be a good fit for you. Physics is the study of the physical universe with the goal of understanding it conceptually and modeling it mathematically.

As part of your physics major, you will study the foundational principles of classical mechanics, thermal physics, electromagnetic theory, and quantum mechanics. A yearlong lab sequence develops your ability to perform, document, and design physically significant experiments. Elective coursework allows you to gain additional understanding in astrophysics, acoustics, and computational physics. Woven throughout the coursework are opportunities to ponder the significance of the Creator’s handiwork. You will be challenged to apply this understanding in daily living and service to others.

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What Sets Cedarville Apart?

Program Overview

Physics Program Highlights

Biblical — Since physics is a study of the physical laws that govern the universe, it is natural to discuss the Creator that maintains those laws continually (Col. 1:15-18). As course content intersects with issues of origins, ethics, and worldview, you will engage in fruitful discussions and assignments that will help you think through the implications of their faith in Jesus Christ.

Broad — Because physics is the foundation to all of the sciences, you will develop analytic skills and gain a solid understanding of physical principles that are valued in other scientific fields. You will investigate a wide range of topics in the classroom including the basics of theoretical mechanics, electromagnetic theory, and quantum mechanics as well as such diverse topics as acoustics, astrophysics, and computational physics.

Expert Faculty — You will learn from faculty who will share their expertise in astronomy, atmospheric science, atomic physics, climate modeling, computational physics, and cosmology.

Excellent Lab Facilities — You will have access to a computerized data acquisition system and instrumentation for conducting a range of classical experiments as well as open-ended investigations. The department has an atomic force microscope for measuring surfaces at the nano-scale and access to computational resources through the Ohio Supercomputer Center.

Professor assists the physics team

Physics at Cedarville University

Take an in-depth look at physics at Cedarville University through our Physics Team site.


What Can You Do With a Physics Degree?

Graduates with a major in physics have a theoretical framework for understanding the physical world, which allows them to branch out into many different scientific and technological fields. Having an analytic approach to problem-solving and a developed facility with mathematical and computational tools, a graduate with a BS in physics is able to pursue a vocation in industries ranging from aerospace and insurance to research and hospitals.

A major in physics can prepare you for a career as a:

  • Data Analyst
  • Research Scientist
  • Science Educator

Cedarville graduates have been accepted and pursued graduate degrees at institutions such as:

  • Cambridge University
  • Drexel University
  • Cornell University
  • Princeton University

Students earning a major in physics at Cedarville have chosen a number of different career routes. About one-third go to graduate school to receive either an MS or PhD degree; one-third choose to teach middle or high school to train the next generation of scientists; the last third choose careers in either the military or private companies.

Placement Success

We’re proud of our successful graduates! 98.1% of recent graduates from the School of Science and Mathematics were employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation. Check out Cedarville's other placement rates.

Opportunities to Learn Outside the Classroom

Collaborative Experiences — Collaboration between the science programs at Cedarville is highly encouraged. As a result, you can choose to double major in physics and mathematics, as well as other disciplines.

Capstone Project — You will complete a capstone research course before graduation. This involves attending seminars in not only physics, but mathematics, chemistry, and biology as well. Your research can range from an independent study of recent developments in a field of physics or an extension of a project in coordination with a physics faculty member.

Laboratory Skills — You will take a three-semester sequence specifically designed to help you develop laboratory and writing skills. You will develop skills in conducting experiments, obtaining relevant data, and presenting your findings.

Research Opportunities — You will be able to participate in undergraduate research projects under direction of a faculty member. Expertise of current faculty members provide opportunities to investigate climate modeling, observational astronomy, computational physics, and analysis of big data through machine learning.

Internships — You will have opportunity to be accepted into summer internships offered at a number of research institutions across the country. You can apply for the following internship opportunities:

Physics Colloquium — Engage in opportunities to connect with physics professionals, learn about novel research being conducted, and form ties with research institutions. With eight colloquia each academic year, the Physics Colloquium provides ample occasions for you to take your knowledge to the next level. Discover the Physics Colloquium

Program Curriculum

Building on your general education and Bible minor courses, you will take core courses in physics as well as chemistry, computer science, electrical engineering, and math. You should also choose math and chemistry courses as electives.

This major offers an accelerated bachelor's-to-master's pathway for students interested in pursuing their MBA.

Sample courses:

  • Advanced Physics Lab
  • Quantum Mechanics

Program Format and Related Programs

Cedarville offers both graduate and undergraduate programs, with flexible completion options. You may also want to consider these related programs as you consider the degree or program that is a best fit for you.

Program Level and Format

  • Undergraduate
  • Residential
  • 4-Year
Two men working at a microscope.

From Our Students:

Job and Grad School Placement

Program Faculty

Photo of Steven Gollmer

Steven Gollmer, PhD

Dean, Senior Professor Physics

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Lin Pan, PhD

Director, Physics Program, Associate Professor of Physics

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Mohan Pereira, PhD

Assistant Professor of Physics

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