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Physics
| Overview |
| A physics major is an outstanding way to gain entry into any
number of high technology fields. Graduates can go on to
graduate school, seek employment in a technical field, or teach
at the high school level. During the undergraduate years, a
student can acquire the mathematical and science skills to
pursue graduate study in physics or a related mathematics or
science field. The student will also gain the skills for
graduate study in many new and exciting fields. Astrophysics,
nanotechnology, engineering, and materials science, biophysics
and bioengineering are but a few examples. |
| What skills and abilities do I need to excel in this degree? |
| First and foremost is a genuine interest in “doing science”
and understanding “how things work”. Mathematics and computer
skills are important tools in this endeavor so a student should
have a good background in these areas and enjoy them. |
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What skills can I expect to develop through this degree? |
| A student can expect to develop their knowledge of science,
particularly physics and how it relates to the other areas such
as astronomy, chemistry, and biology. Further, the student will
acquire the sophisticated mathematics and computer skills
required for problem solving. Laboratory and research
experiences will prepare the student to design and conduct
research and to effectively communicate the results of their
work. |
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What I will learn |
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Physics majors will have a thorough comprehension of the fundamental
concepts and scientific theories of physics. In addition, they will be
competent problem-solvers of both theoretical and practical problems.
Physics majors will be competent, ethical, and safety-conscious in the
laboratory. Majors will design and set up an experiment, collect and
analyze data, properly document experiment procedures and data, identify
sources of error, interpret results, and make relevant connections to
other areas in physics and other science disciplines. Physics majors
will effectively communicate orally and in writing chemical principles
and theories, the procedures and results of experiments, and their
analyses of problems. Majors will defend conclusions reached in
experimental results or solution to problems. |
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What opportunities are there for internships or other hands-on learning experiences? |
| There are many opportunities for internships and
“hands on” learning experiences. These can be tailored to the
individual student interest. Students interested in K-12
teaching can work with area teachers in K-12 classrooms. There
are many summer research opportunities sponsored by the National
Science Foundation available at universities and government
laboratories. Internships are also available with local high
tech businesses. Students can also work closely with CMU faculty
as laboratory assistants, tutors and mentors, and on faculty
research. |
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What are some possible entry-level careers with a degree in this
field? |
| An important entry level career is K-12 teaching,
particularly at the Middle School and High School level. There
are serious shortages of teachers in mathematics and science.
The student who graduates with a degree in physics can also
compete for entry level employment at government laboratories,
state and federal agencies, the military, or high tech
businesses and industries. |
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What are some CMU graduates with this degree doing? |
Teaching in high school
Laboratory work
Graduate study and research in materials science
Graduate study in mathematics
Patent attorney |
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Other items to note |
CMU is unique in that it is the home of Morrison
Observatory. This facility provides a unique opportunity for
students to do work in astronomy.
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