Undergraduate

Overview of Physics as a Major and Career

Physics, the most basic of the sciences, has intellectual and useful aspects. The intellectual component resides in our innate desire to understand the physical characteristics of our universe. The usefulness is evident everywhere in high-tech products and computerized communications. Many of the technological advances in our modern society flow directly from physics laboratories, such as the many applications of lasers, or the possibility of high speed levitated trains relying on high temperature superconductors. Much of the equipment and technology used by other scientists and medical doctors were originally developed by physicists, including x-rays, lasers, and MRIs. These are just several examples of exciting applications which resulted from intellectual endeavors in physics. In addition, productive citizens in this technological age must have a basic understanding of physics. For example, congressmen and all citizens need an understanding of physics when they debate government appropriations for projects, such as the space program, the requirements for energy needs and energy conservation, and possible solutions to global warming.

A degree in physics provides opportunities for challenging and exciting careers in many professions, because physics teaches skills that are transferable to these professions. These skills include problem solving, analytical abilities, mathematical modeling, design and interpretation of experiments, research experience, and communication skills. The physics major is also excellent preparation for students planning to enter science-related businesses, Business School, Medical School, or Law School. Medical Schools seek out students with majors in physics because of the high-tech nature of medical care. Business schools consider a major in physics outstanding preparation for an understanding of manufacturing and the high-tech aspect of our economy. Just a few of the many careers that are open to you by pursuing a degree in physics are listed below.

Facts you should know about being a physics major:

Over three quarters of physics bachelor’s recipients would choose to study physics again.

Did you know? Physics in everyday life…

(Compiled from information provided by the American Institute of Physics and WFU Physics professors)

Guidance for Undergraduate Students

If you are interested in finding out more about careers in physics, visit our career advising page.

Another great resource for information on careers in physics, how well physics majors do on MCAT exams, what starting salaries physics bachelors degree graduates are offered, etc. can be found on the following informative website maintained by the American Physical Society (the main professional society of physicists in the United States): https://www.aip.org/statistics/trends/career.html

Why study physics at Wake Forest?

Overview of programs and research interests

The Wake Forest Physics Department offers an outstanding educational program for the undergraduate student, with the option to pursue either a BS or a BA in physics or a BS in biophysics.  Students with interdisciplinary interests can also pursue a minor in physics. Our programs are designed to give students a broad understanding of physics, with the opportunity to pursue research at the forefront of biophysics, condensed matter physics, gravitation and particle physics and medical physics. Students have the opportunity to take interesting advanced courses in elective areas, such as Extragalactic Astronomy and Cosmology and the Physics of Biological Macromolecules. The Department provides a unique mix of research opportunities similar to those found at large research universities with the atmosphere of a small liberal arts and sciences university.  Graduates from the Wake Forest Physics Department hold exciting and challenging positions at colleges, universities, industry and government laboratories, and not-for-profit institutes.  More details about research opportunities are described in the research web pages.

What makes the Physics Department at WFU Special?

Small classes means the faculty get to know all the students, can provide personal feedback and modify teaching methods when necessary and students feel more comfortable asking questions and engaging in discussion

Benefits of a liberal arts and sciences education

• A liberal arts and sciences education is one in which students must take courses that provide general knowledge, as well as those in a specific major. (This is in contrast to a technical, professional, or vocational education, which focuses only on preparing students for a specific job or career.)
• A liberal arts and sciences education is designed to develop general intellectual capabilities, including the ability to identify and solve problems, and communicate solutions to those problems to others; these skills are necessary for a lifetime of learning and community engagement in any career.
• The 2000 survey of employers conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) indicated that general skills, including written and verbal communication skills, the ability to solve complex problems and to work well with others are important in hiring decisions; these are characteristics of a liberal arts and sciences education and the education you would obtain with a physics degree from Wake Forest University.
• This liberal arts and sciences education in the Physics Department is earned within the context of a nationally-ranked research university.

Facilities and infrastructure to support research

• State-of-the-art equipment
• Excellent library
• Powerful high performance scientific computing

Interdisciplinary teaching and research with other departments

• (Computer Science, Math, Chemistry, Biology, Health and Exercise Science) and WFU Medical School
• Interdisciplinary research and education prepares students to work in the diverse teams that are found in the workplace

Graduation Outcomes: What might you expect after earning a degree in physics from WFU?

• With a major in physics from WFU, you will develop solid mathematical skills, strong problem solving ability, and a good work ethic –these essential skills will allow you to work in many different areas.
• Over the past five-years, in a typical graduating class:
  • 3 go on to graduate school in physics
  • 4 go on to graduate school in engineering
  • 2 go to medical or dental school
  • 7 enter the work force, in IT, finance, professional sports, biotechnology or other STEM careers, or join the military.
• Our alumni are involved in career advising:
  • Each semester, 1-2 alumni visit campus, present a seminar, and talk with graduate and undergraduate students about career possibilities (see Career Advising and Resources page for more information)
  • If you are an alumnus/a who would like to visit campus and share your experiences with the students, please contact the chair of our career advising committee, Jed Macosko.
• Compared to other national universities, Wake Forest University is ranked #27 by US News and World Report:
  • The US News and World Report rankings are based on educational details, including faculty-student ratios, admissions selectivity, financial resources and alumni giving.

Society of Physics Students