Roger Williams University

What you'll study

The programme builds a firm core in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, and quantum mechanics, then progresses to specialised topics in nuclear and particle physics. You will take a sequence of laboratory courses that emphasise experimental technique, data analysis and instrumentation, alongside coursework in mathematical methods for physicists and computational physics.

• Core physics courses: Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Quantum Mechanics, Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics, Modern Physics.
• Mathematics and computational tools: Calculus I–III, Differential Equations, Linear Algebra, Mathematical Methods for Physicists, Computational Physics and programming for scientific applications.
• Nuclear and particle-focused modules: Nuclear Physics, Introductory Particle Physics, Radiation Physics and Detection, Advanced Topics in Nuclear Structure and Decay, and courses covering detector instrumentation and accelerator principles where available.
• Laboratory and practical experience: Sequential physics labs, electronics and instrumentation labs, a course in experimental methods, and opportunities for independent undergraduate research projects and senior capstone involving experimental or computational investigations.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: Optics, Solid State Physics, Medical Physics, Environmental Physics, or courses from mathematics, engineering and computer science to support specialised career paths.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong preparation in mathematics and science. Recommended secondary-school preparation includes coursework in calculus (or precalculus with willingness to take first-year calculus), physics and chemistry. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong quantitative skills, analytical problem-solving ability, and academic motivation.

• Academic background: High-school mathematics through calculus is expected; physics and chemistry are strongly recommended.
• Supporting materials: Academic transcripts and a personal statement describing interest in physics and research; letters of recommendation are commonly requested for applicants seeking competitive scholarships or honours research placements.
• International students: Equivalent academic qualifications plus demonstrated English proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.
• Advanced standing: Students with AP, IB, A-levels or other recognised college-credit qualifications may receive credit or placement in calculus and introductory physics courses subject to departmental policies.

Career prospects

Graduates with a physics degree and a focus in nuclear and particle physics are well positioned for a range of careers. Many enter graduate programmes in physics, nuclear engineering, medical physics, or related fields. Others pursue technical and professional roles in industry, government laboratories, healthcare and energy sectors.

• Research and academia: PhD programmes in experimental or theoretical physics, post‑graduate research at national laboratories or university groups.
• Technical and applied roles: Radiation safety and health physics, accelerator and detector instrumentation, instrumentation engineering, and analytics roles in energy and aerospace sectors.
• Healthcare and applied sciences: Medical physics (with further professional training), radiological technologies, and imaging science.
• Industry and data careers: Roles in data science, software development for scientific applications, modelling and simulation, and technical consulting.
• Education and outreach: Secondary‑school teaching, science communication and public engagement.

Why study at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams University offers a physics curriculum emphasising close faculty mentoring, hands-on laboratory work and accessible research opportunities for undergraduates. Class sizes are typically small, enabling personalized instruction and close collaboration with faculty on experimental and computational projects.

• Undergraduate research: Students can engage in independent research and senior capstone projects that develop experimental skills and prepare for graduate study or technical careers.
• Practical training: Lab-based coursework in electronics, detectors and computational methods equips students with practical instrumentation and data-analysis experience.
• Interdisciplinary environment: The university supports cross-disciplinary study with engineering, mathematics, computer science and environmental science, useful for applied physics careers.
• Career support: Dedicated career services and faculty advising help students secure internships, co-curricular experiences and placements in regional labs, industry partners and graduate programmes.