Physics

teacher and students in classroom

Studying physics helps us understand how the world works from the tiniest sub-atomic particles to the largest galaxies. Physics is defined as the study of matter, energy, and the interaction between them.

Physicists study how the world around us works to discover the basic building blocks of matter, how the universe began, and how it will likely change. A degree in physics will prepare you for a future in any number of interesting fields from research and academia to health care and medicine to business development and computer games.

Physics at Emory encompasses many programs:

  • BS/BA in Physics
  • BS/BA in Physics and Astronomy
  • BA in Physics for Life Sciences
  • BS in Biophysics
  • BS in Engineering
  • Minor in Physics
  • Minor in Astronomy

Outcomes

The largest number of physics majors who go directly into STEM fields work in engineering, computer hardware and software, scientific research, and academia.

At Emory, our BS majors enter the best graduate programs for advanced study in physics and astronomy. And our BA majors are equally well prepared to excel in a wide variety of fields, including medicine, law, industry, business, teaching, and policy studies.

Recent graduates work at Omni Eye Services, Gradum Baseball, Capco, Renal Associates and Scotts Concrete.

They’re also pursuing advanced degrees at such prestigious institutions as Stanford, Tufts, SUNY-Buffalo, and the University of Texas at Austin.

$110,000
median mid-career salary with a bachelors degree in physics
PayScale
#20
Best Science Lab Facilities
Princeton Review 2019

Example of Major Classes

Research in Physics

Mia Morrell

The fruit fly equivalent in physics research

Mia Morrell 20C participated in research with physics professor Eric Weeks, using hydrogel balls to study the ways clogs form. The results of their inquiry have implications on everything from improving the flow of traffic on highways to saving lives through better emergency exit design.

Physics is an ongoing science, even though our modern physics course includes Einstein's work, which is more than 100 years old. We want students to know research is an option that lets them push forward what we know about our world.

Eric Weeks
Department chair and Samuel Candler Dobbs Professor of Physics