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About the Physics Department
The physics department at Boise State is located in a state-of-the-art facility, which reflects the dedication and commitment by the physics faculty to quality undergraduate education. The emphasis of BSU's physics department is on applied physics with a firm theoretical basis.
University computing facilities include student computer rooms furnished with IBM PCs and Apple Macintosh computers. Through the network of fiber optics cables and wireless routers, physics students have access to a Stardent super minicomputer. Faculty members are readily accessible to students, and students are invited to participate in faculty research projects.
A bachelor of science degree is offered for students who wish to work in technical positions or enter graduate school. A secondary education option is available for those interested in high school teaching positions.
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Department Statement
The scope of the program is applied physics. However, flexibility is maintained in order to direct students toward their desired objectives. If the student is interested in going on into graduate physics, more math and some independent study in quantum physics would be recommended. Depending on the particular field of interest in physics, the student could select electives in biology, chemistry, engineering, math, or geophysics.
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Why Major in Physics?
Physics is the foundation of chemistry, geophysics and engineering, and is becoming more important to biology and medicine. Not only is the knowledge gained in physics courses important, but many of the instruments developed primarily by physicists have become very important in medicine, chemistry and molecular biology. Examples include nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers, x-ray diffraction units and the mass spectrometer.
Physics provides a broad background for a variety of majors. Students with degrees in physics have successfully gone on to graduate school and careers in all fields of engineering, chemistry, biology, medicine, law (specially patent law), even financial management, and of course physics and astronomy. The mathematical applications, deductive reasoning, analytical skills and computer knowledge gained in a physics degree are valuable in many careers.
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Financial Aid
Both departmental and university scholarships are available to incoming and continuing students. BSU also has other financial assistance programs which include loans, grants and part-time jobs.
Contact the Financial Services Office at BSU, for application forms or additional information.
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