Undergraduate Programs

Why Study Physics?

Physics students learn how the laws of nature can be used to explain the many phenomena of our world. Most students are excited to find that elementary principles, many of which are learned in introductory physics courses, may be used to solve seemingly complex problems. This ability to apply the simple principles that underlie complex problems will serve students well in the interests and careers they pursue after graduation.


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Major in Physics

Our students gain a strong foundation in the basics of physics while developing analytical and problem-solving skills essential in any career. A solid grounding in the liberal arts, which includes written and oral communication skills, is an asset sought by most employers.


Halle Foster

Develop Problem-Solving Skills

“I’m sincerely grateful for the guidance and support provided at UO throughout my academic journey. The UO physics department fosters an inclusive environment facilitated by dedicated educators committed to supporting and challenging their students. Apart from gaining valuable experience in a research lab, they equipped me with creative problem-solving skills and prepared me for the UO Knight Campus Master’s Program. Thanks to these experiences I attained an exciting, great-paying job in the high-tech industry, which is a testament to the practical and impactful education obtainable at UO. I'm incredibly grateful for these opportunities and excited to see what comes next.”

—Halle Foster, physics major, '23


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Get Real-World Experience

Physics majors can develop their skills through a variety of experiential learning opportunities, from designing their own experiments in the Advanced Projects Lab to joining one of our physics research groups.


Advising and Academic Support

Schedule an appointment with an advisor and get your questions answered. 

Departmental Advising and Support

Scholarships and Awards

Explore ways to fund your studies in the Department of Physics.

Scholarships and Awards


Events

Consortium of Oregon Diversity and Equity Scholars (CODES) Conference
Sep26
Consortium of Oregon Diversity and Equity Scholars (CODES) Conference Sep 26 Straub Hall
Department of History: Fall Get-Togeter
Oct3
Department of History: Fall Get-Togeter Oct 3 McKenzie Hall
How to: Resume and Cover Letter Tips (Workshop)
Oct13
How to: Resume and Cover Letter Tips (Workshop) Oct 13 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
Resume Extravaganza! (Drop-In Resume Reviews with Career Coaches & Peer Coaches)
Oct15
Resume Extravaganza! (Drop-In Resume Reviews with Career Coaches & Peer Coaches) Oct 15 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
Career Tour-Tech Edition
Oct17
Career Tour-Tech Edition Oct 17 Ford Alumni Center
2025 Oregon Postdoc Symposium
Oct17
2025 Oregon Postdoc Symposium Oct 17
The BIG10 Academia Postdoc Hiring Fair
Oct21
The BIG10 Academia Postdoc Hiring Fair Oct 21
How to: Interview (Workshop)
Oct21
How to: Interview (Workshop) Oct 21 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
Your Future in Food & Beverage (Panel + Networking Night)
Oct21
Your Future in Food & Beverage (Panel + Networking Night) Oct 21 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
The BIG10 Academia Faculty Hiring Fair
Oct22
The BIG10 Academia Faculty Hiring Fair Oct 22