Utica College

Programme overview

Utica's Physics program provides a broad introduction to the physical world, from atomic structure to large-scale astrophysical interactions. The department offers two undergraduate degree tracks (B.A. and B.S.), small classes, close faculty contact, student research and outreach activities, and articulation options with engineering schools (including a 3+2 transfer pathway and a collaborative accelerated masters program with WPI).

What you'll study

The curriculum covers fundamental physics concepts and experimental techniques with options tailored to different goals: the B.S. emphasizes preparation for graduate school and careers in research or engineering; the B.A. is aimed at students planning to teach or work in business or government roles that require a strong physical-science background. The program teaches conceptual understanding, quantitative problem solving, laboratory experimentation and scientific communication. Students may pursue summer research projects (for example, SunEarth interaction research supervised by Prof. Hava Turkakin) and participate in the Society of Physics Students and other outreach activities.

Entry requirements

Undergraduate applicants should be physics majors or minors. The department also runs a summer research opportunity for high school and undergraduate students: high school applicants should be starting their junior or senior year during the application period and have completed at least one physics course with a minimum score of 85% (AP Physics students are preferred). Interested students should contact Prof. Hava Turkakin with a statement of purpose and high school transcript.

Career prospects

Graduates use the program as preparation for roles in research and development, engineering, laboratory technician positions and teaching. Alumni have pursued advanced degrees in physics or engineering and held positions at institutions such as the Air Force Research Lab, Naval Surface Warfare Center, universities and industry employers.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The department has invested in new instrumentation with support from the National Science Foundation and the Camille and Henry Dreyfus Foundation. NSF-supported summer research opportunities are offered to high school and undergraduate students, and the department engages in externally funded research and outreach that can provide experiential and funding pathways for students.