Dr. Richard F. Martin, Professor and Chairperson
Department of Physics
Illinois State University
Campus Box 4560
Normal, IL 61790-4560
Phone: (309) 438-8756
Fax: (309) 438-5413
email: info -at- phy.ilstu.edu
Web: http://www.phy.ilstu.edu
The laws of physics describe nature ranging from the tiniest subatomic particles to the largest celestial objects in the universe. Many physicists strive to extend these laws to understand and explain the unknown. Other physicists and engineers use the known laws of physics to develop innovative products and technologies capable of improving the general quality of life.
This is a four-year program designed for students planning graduate study in physics, graduate study in an allied field such as engineering, industrial/business employment, and other professional schools. Majors complete a well- balanced curriculum, concentrating on theoretical and experimental physics, computational physics and mathematics.
For more information, visit the Sequence at a Glance page.
Undergraduates are currently making valuable contributions to faculty research programs in quantum optics, atomic and molecular physics, condensed matter and materials science, space science and astrophysics, and biophysics. In addition to the excitement of doing research, students may also receive paid stipends for their work. These collaborations often lead to presentations at professional conferences and coauthorship on publications.
When you graduate with a degree in physics you’ll be qualified for a surprising variety of career
options. Just as a sampling, recent graduates have followed the following paths: graduate study in physics and in engineering; law school; medical
school; employment at the Fermi National Accelerator Lab and the Argonne National Lab;
employment at a wide variety of engineering,
computer, and other technical companies; and even
employment in the business and financial world. A degree in Physics is truly a ticket to many possible futures.