University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The programme delivers a broad physics foundation in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics and statistical physics, and then builds specific depth in nuclear and particle physics topics. Core modules typically include:

• Foundations of Physics: introductory mechanics, waves and thermodynamics with integrated laboratory work.
• Mathematical Methods for Physicists: calculus, linear algebra, differential equations and complex analysis applied to physical problems.
• Electromagnetism and Modern Physics: intermediate electromagnetism, special relativity and introductory quantum theory.
• Advanced Quantum Mechanics: formalism and applications relevant to nuclear and particle systems.
• Nuclear Physics: nuclear structure, reactions, models, decay processes and applications.
• Particle Physics: standard model basics, particle interactions, accelerator physics concepts and detectors.
• Radiation Physics and Instrumentation: radiation-matter interaction, radiation detection, spectroscopy and hands-on detector laboratory classes.
• Computational and Data Analysis: numerical methods, Monte Carlo techniques, data reduction and statistical analysis for experiments.
• Laboratory Courses and Capstone Project: multi-term experimental labs and an independent senior research project or honours thesis in an area such as detector development, radiation measurements or theory/computational studies.

Students also take supporting courses in advanced mathematics and may choose electives in engineering, computer science or applied physics to tailor the degree to interests such as medical physics, nuclear engineering or data science. The programme emphasises hands-on laboratory practice, computing skills and opportunities for undergraduate research under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Science in Physics programme normally requires a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong record in mathematics and physics. Successful applicants typically have completed courses in:

• Calculus (or precalculus with strong evidence of mathematical ability)
• High-school physics
• Additional science subjects such as chemistry are advantageous

For applicants from different educational systems, equivalent qualifications with demonstrated strength in STEM subjects are acceptable. Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to meet the university's standard English proficiency requirements. Competitive applicants often present strong grades, evidence of quantitative skills, and any relevant extracurricular experience such as science clubs, research internships or programming projects.

Career prospects

Graduates with a physics degree emphasising nuclear and particle physics are well placed for a range of careers. Typical pathways include:

• Further study: MSc or PhD in physics, nuclear physics, particle physics, medical physics or related disciplines.
• Research positions: roles at university groups, national laboratories and accelerator facilities working on experimental or theoretical projects.
• Industry and engineering: technical roles in the nuclear power sector, radiation safety, instrumentation, sensors and detector development.
• Healthcare and applied physics: with further certification, careers in medical physics, radiography and radiation therapy technology.
• Data science and technology: analysis, modelling and software development roles that value quantitative and computational skills.
• Government and regulation: positions in regulatory agencies, environmental monitoring and energy policy related to radiation and nuclear technology.
• Education and outreach: teaching at secondary level or public engagement and science communication roles.

The programme’s emphasis on experimental techniques, computing and transferable quantitative skills means graduates are adaptable across research, technical and analytical professions.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota’s Department of Physics & Astrophysics offers small-class teaching and close faculty supervision, allowing undergraduates to become actively involved in research projects. Students benefit from well-equipped teaching laboratories, opportunities for hands-on work with detectors and instrumentation, and training in modern computational tools used in nuclear and particle physics.

UND maintains collaborations with regional research organisations and provides pathways to summer internships and research placements that support transition to graduate study or industry. The department emphasises mentorship, undergraduate research experience and preparation for technical careers, making it a strong choice for students aiming to specialise in nuclear and particle physics while building versatile analytical skills.