Physics Department

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Because of students’ diverse interests, the Physics curriculum is flexible and personalized. We emphasize research and experimentation to help students identify and follow their passion within the discipline. Early in their Physics studies, majors learn to work with state-of-the-art equipment, quantify experimental uncertainties and hone their scientific writing skills.

Physics is at the core of understanding the natural sciences, and Guilford has designed a comprehensive department to prepare students for a variety of related pursuits and continued study. The major consists of several tracks, providing a broad education in the science of Physics. They include:

B.S. in Physics for students pursuing employment in a technical field
B.S. in Physics for students preparing for graduate study
B.S. in Physics for students preparing for graduate study in astrophysics
B.S. in Physics for students preparing for engineering

The experimental Physics sequence stresses laboratory techniques, cooperative research and clear, thoughtful presentation of results. Students design experiments, act as principal investigators, write journal articles and give talks as they learn how to perform self-directed research culminating in an original thesis project.

College Catalog

For more information about courses for the Physics Department, visit the online, searchable College Catalog. The Undergraduate Catalog also includes academic department and major information, academic regulations and resources, admission standards and requirements, and tuition, fees, and financial aid information.

Majors and Minors

"Guilford taught me how to communicate my own ideas and be receptive to the differing views of others. That has proven to be an invaluable skill."

Nathan Knisely '11, PhD
Senior systems engineer at Draper; Physics and Mathematics double major

The bachelor of science in Physics offers a high degree of flexibility, with specific tracks continued studies leading to any number of professions, including becoming an engineer, for example.
The Physics minor is most useful for majors in other sciences or education who wish to increase their exposure to analytical, mathematical and computational tools.