Physics
- Overview
- Careers
- New Freshmen
- New Transfer
- Illinois State Students
Explore the mysteries of the universe. From galaxies to particles, physicists study the world around us and beyond to explain how things work and exist.
The Physics major at Illinois State is broad. You’ll get a diverse curriculum that covers a variety of topics, including:
- Motion
- Electromagnetism
- Quantum Physics
- Thermodynamics
- Materials Physics
- Statistical Mechanics
- Relativity
You’ll also focus on theoretical and experimental physics, computational physics, and mathematics
Why Study Physics?
The Physics field makes major discoveries and develops technology that changes lives. It teaches you to think, analyze, and solve problems. Physics at Illinois State is one of the top 20 undergraduate-only physics departments in the country.
Our program teaches you the fundamental laws of physics and prepares you for the future. Whether you go to graduate school or enter an allied field, you'll have powerful skills and expertise.
Popular career options include engineering, industrial/business employment, and other professional schools.
Related Skills
- Strong math background
- Ability to use computers and derive data
- Strong technical communication skills
- Ability to use theories in practice
- Strong analytical skills
- Logical thinker
Being Successful in the Field
- A bachelor's degree will qualify for positions as research assistants, high-level technicians, or computer specialists, as well as nontechnical work in publishing or sales.
- An undergraduate degree also provides a solid background for pursuing advanced degrees in other employment areas such as physics, astronomy, law, engineering, business, accounting, or medicine.
- A graduate degree and post-graduate experience will allow for more responsibility and advancement in the field of physics and is required for university faculty positions.
- Graduate schools and employers look for unique experiences on your resume. Participating in research, internships, co-curricular activities, or teaching assistant opportunities can help you stand out.
- Most industries will train in the specialty of the firm.
- A bachelor's degree and state teacher certification are required for K-12 teaching opportunities.
- Network with people in the field by joining relevant professional associations and attending conferences.
- Hands-on experience with computer programming, data analysis, laboratory equipment, and machinery will make your resume stand out.
Career Resources
The Careers Toolbox helps you find internships, research positions, and resources for getting into graduate programs.
View employment data from the American Institute of Physics .
The Illinois State Physics Department has a course (PHY 307) specifically designed to teach you technical communication skills, help you with your resume, and give you the tools necessary to land your dream job.
Our faculty also meet individually with you to help with career planning. In addition, you can find help through Illinois State's Career Services and look for internships and jobs at an Illinois State Career Fair.
Related Fields
Physics majors have countless options for careers. The Physics degree at Illinois State is designed for students who want a broad education in a wide variety of physics subfields.
About half of students with this degree go to graduate school and the other half join the workforce in areas as diverse as technology, law, medicine, and finance.
Career Industry Liaison
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Debbie Ungson-Walbert | 208 Bone Student Center | dungson@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2200 |
Internship Coordinator
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dan Holland | 311B Moulton Hall | dlholla@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-8756 |
Applying to Illinois State
Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. Start your application today!
Applying to Illinois State
Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. Start your application today!
Minimum GPA
2.00
Middle 50% GPA
3.13 - 3.79
Required Courses
Grade of "C" or better in:
- Calculus I (MAT 145)
Recommended Courses
To find the course equivalencies at an Illinois community college, please review our Course Articulation Guides.
- Physics for Science & Engineering I (PHY 110)
- Physics for Science & Engineering II (PHY 111)
- Physics for Science & Engineering III (PHY 112)
- Calculus II (MAT 146)
- Calculus III (MAT 147)
- Elementary Linear Algebra (MAT 175)
- General Chemistry I & II (CHE 140 & 141)
Academic Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mandy Webster | Julian Hall 214A | alwebs1@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-1522 |
Minimum GPA
2.00
Middle 50% GPA
3.13 - 3.79
Application Period
Applications are always accepted.
Application Information
Current students can use the Apply to Your Program tool on My.IllinoisState.edu.
Academic Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mandy Webster | Julian Hall 214A | alwebs1@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-1522 |