Physics Major

Student uses optical tools in physics lab

Overview

The analytical, conceptual and experimental skills perfected by Physics majors apply to many careers. We strive to provide a breadth of knowledge, skills and experience to give you a foundation for lifelong learning, as well as access to cutting-edge research. You can get inspiration and advice from successful Oneonta grads through our Physics and Astronomy Alumni Career Seminar series.

Program Type

Major

Area of Study

Science and Mathematics

Delivery Mode

In Person
Physical Science building on the SUNY Oneonta campus

Facilities

Our Physics facilities include specialized labs for student and faculty research in the field of lasers, thin films/high vacuum, magnetism, advanced mechanics and materials testing. Many physics majors also minor in astronomy, and SUNY Oneonta has a digital planetarium and an observatory with a suite of half-meter and one-meter class telescopes.

Assistant Professor of Physics & Astronomy Josh Nollenberg lectures to his “Big Bang and the Formation of the Universe” class

Astronomy Minor

With graduate study elsewhere, astronomy minors could pursue a career in astronomy or astrophysics. Current research emphasis includes variable stars, exoplanets, stellar astrophysics, gravitational lensing, cosmology and extragalactic astrophysics.  Campus astronomy activities are supported by an observatory and a planetarium.

Career Opportunities

From aerospace engineer to science technician, there are all kinds of things you can do with a physics degree. See a sampling of careers our grads are pursuing.

  • Astrophysicist
  • Biophysicist
  • Computer Engineer
  • Civil Engineer
  • Electrical Engineer
  • Geophysicist
  • Math and Physics Teacher
  • Materials Scientist
  • Nuclear Engineer
  • Semiconductor Technician

Requirements

Select the track that interests you – Option A or Option B – and see the list of required courses and a sample plan of study for your next four years.

Meet Our Students and Faculty

See our Physics and Astronomy facilities and learn about classes and hands-on learning opportunities.

Students learn about wave motion by building a “Jelly Belly Wave Machine.”

Hands-On Learning

The campus has an active Physics and Astronomy Club that sponsors speakers, organizes field trips to industrial and academic laboratories, and helps conduct science outreach events at our observatory, planetarium and Science Discovery Center. You can also get involved with faculty research, assist in campus laboratories or pursue a summer internship.

Students enjoying physics lab class

Physics Education

Future middle or high school physics teachers will complete a dual major in Physics and Adolescence Education: Physics.

Students in physics lab

3-2 Engineering Program

Interested in engineering? Learn more about our five-year, dual-degree partnership program with several engineering schools.

Contact Admissions

Address

108 Ravine Parkway
Oneonta, NY 13820
United States

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