Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The programme integrates core physics and core engineering across a four‑year curriculum. Early years emphasise calculus, differential equations, classical mechanics, electromagnetism, modern physics and laboratory methods to build a quantitative foundation. Engineering courses introduce circuits, materials, thermodynamics, and systems thinking alongside computing and numerical methods.

Later years focus on applied and advanced topics such as quantum mechanics, statistical physics, electronic and photonic materials, solid state physics, optics and instrumentation, control systems, and applied computational modelling. Students complete hands‑on laboratory courses and a senior capstone design or research project that emphasises experimental technique, data analysis and engineering design.

• Typical first‑year courses: calculus sequence, introductory physics with labs, introductory engineering design, programming for scientists/engineers.
• Core modules in later years: classical and modern physics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics and statistical physics, materials science, electronics, optics, and applied mathematics.
• Applied and elective options: semiconductor devices, photonics, instrumentation, control systems, nanotechnology, computational physics, and machine learning for physical sciences.
• Capstone and research: individual or team senior design project, and strong opportunities for faculty‑mentored undergraduate research in labs across physics, engineering and biomedical departments.
• Flexibility: options to pursue minors or dual concentrations (for example in computer science, electrical engineering, or biomedical engineering), and opportunities for internships or co‑ops.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong background in mathematics and science. Successful candidates will typically have taken advanced secondary courses in calculus and physics; additional coursework in chemistry and computer science is beneficial. For U.S. applicants this usually means a high school diploma with high achievement in STEM subjects. International applicants should have the equivalent secondary qualifications and meet English language proficiency requirements.

Admissions to the programme consider overall academic record, coursework rigor, letters of recommendation, a personal statement demonstrating interest in quantitative science and engineering, and relevant extracurricular experience such as research projects, technical clubs or internships. Standardised test submission policies may vary; consult the university for the current approach to tests like the SAT or ACT.

Career prospects

Graduates of Engineering Physics are prepared for diverse technical careers and advanced study. Common destinations include industry R&D roles (semiconductors, photonics, instrumentation), engineering positions in aerospace and energy, roles in medical device and biomedical engineering firms, and technical consulting. Many students progress to graduate study (master’s and PhD) in physics, applied physics, materials science or various engineering disciplines.

Other pathways include careers in data science, quantitative analysis, software engineering for scientific applications, and technology entrepreneurship. The programme’s combination of experimental, computational and design skills makes graduates adaptable across research labs, corporations and start‑ups.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University offers close interdisciplinary collaboration between the Case School of Engineering and the Department of Physics, providing access to well‑equipped experimental laboratories and computational resources. The university’s connections with local research institutions and hospitals create additional opportunities for applied projects and internships.

Undergraduates benefit from a research‑active faculty, small class sizes in advanced courses, and structured opportunities for mentored research and capstone design. The location within a vibrant regional technology and healthcare ecosystem enhances prospects for industry placements and collaborative projects. The programme’s emphasis on both fundamental science and practical engineering prepares students for flexible careers and for competitive admission to graduate programmes.