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

Resume Extravaganza! (Drop-In Resume Reviews with Career Coaches & Peer Coaches)
Jan22
Resume Extravaganza! (Drop-In Resume Reviews with Career Coaches & Peer Coaches) Jan 22 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
Catalysts for Impact Information Session
Jan23
Catalysts for Impact Information Session Jan 23 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Wildlands Information Session
Jan23
Wildlands Information Session Jan 23 McKenzie Hall
UO Women in Economics: Goals & Gossip
Jan23
UO Women in Economics: Goals & Gossip Jan 23 Anstett Hall
Career Tour-Bioscience & Beyond!
Jan24
Career Tour-Bioscience & Beyond! Jan 24 Ford Alumni Center
Winter Economics Social
Jan24
Winter Economics Social Jan 24 Gerlinger Hall
Organic/Inorganic/Materials Seminar - Third Year Talks
Jan24
Organic/Inorganic/Materials Seminar - Third Year Talks Jan 24 Willamette Hall
How to: Resume and Cover Letter tips (Workshop)
Jan27
How to: Resume and Cover Letter tips (Workshop) Jan 27 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
Physical Chemistry Seminar - On-Demand Control of Single-Molecule Chemistry through Vibrational Characterization and Manipulation
Jan27
Physical Chemistry Seminar - On-Demand Control of Single-Molecule Chemistry through Vibrational Characterization and Manipulation Jan 27 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
Oregon and International Trivia Game with Prizes
Jan27
Oregon and International Trivia Game with Prizes Jan 27 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall