University of Southern Indiana

What you'll study

This programme combines the standard core of a physics degree with targeted courses and laboratory experience in nuclear and particle physics. Over four years you will study classical and modern physics principles alongside the mathematical methods needed for advanced work.

• Core physics: introductory and intermediate mechanics, electromagnetism, waves and optics, modern physics, and thermal/ statistical physics.
• Mathematics and computational skills: calculus sequence, differential equations, linear algebra, and computational physics or scientific programming to support data analysis and simulations.
• Advanced theoretical courses: quantum mechanics I & II, advanced classical mechanics, and electrodynamics as preparation for particle- and nuclear-level theory.
• Nuclear and particle specialisms: nuclear physics, radiation and interactions of matter, particle physics and detectors, and topics such as accelerator principles or nuclear instrumentation.
• Laboratory and practical experience: intermediate and advanced physics labs, radiation detection and measurement labs, electronics for experimental physics, and hands‑on experiments emphasising measurement techniques and uncertainty analysis.
• Research and capstone: supervised undergraduate research projects or a senior capstone/thesis in an area of nuclear or particle physics, often performed with faculty mentors or external lab partners.
• Electives and professional skills: courses in safety and radiation protection, applied statistics, technical communication, and opportunities to take complementary subjects such as chemistry, engineering, or computer science.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a solid foundation in mathematics and science from secondary education. Typical preparation includes courses in algebra, geometry, precalculus or calculus and laboratory science such as physics and chemistry. Admissions assess overall academic record and readiness for a mathematically rigorous curriculum.

• High school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in mathematics and science.
• Preparation in calculus and introductory physics is highly recommended; students without calculus may be admitted but will be expected to complete prerequisite maths early in the programme.
• Colleges and transfer applicants are evaluated on post‑secondary coursework; previous college credit in calculus and physics will strengthen an application.
• International applicants should demonstrate comparable secondary qualifications and English language proficiency as required by the university.
• Faculty may consider evidence of commitment to the subject such as research experience, relevant internships, or strong references, particularly for admission into research projects.

Career prospects

Graduates with a physics degree focusing on nuclear and particle physics have a wide range of career paths. Many continue to graduate school for research or professional degrees; others move directly into industry or technical roles.

• Research and academia: graduate study leading to careers in experimental or theoretical physics at universities and national laboratories.
• National labs and industry: roles in radiation detection and measurement, accelerator facilities, nuclear instrumentation, and applied research for government or private sector labs.
• Health and safety: opportunities in medical physics (normally requiring further qualification), health physics, radiological safety and regulatory compliance.
• Technical and analytical careers: data analysis, software development for scientific applications, instrumentation engineering, and roles in aerospace or energy sectors.
• Education and outreach: secondary school teaching (with certification), museum or science centre work, and community STEM engagement.

Why study at University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana emphasises undergraduate-focused education with accessible faculty mentorship and opportunities for hands‑on research. Small class sizes allow close interaction with instructors and quicker access to lab supervision and independent project supervision.

• Undergraduate research opportunities: students can join faculty research projects or develop independent capstone projects that provide practical experience in experimental techniques and data analysis.
• Practical laboratory training: the department offers laboratory courses and equipment that support experiments in radiation detection, electronics and classical physics, preparing students for technical roles or graduate research.
• Regional and professional connections: partnerships with local industry, healthcare providers and regional laboratories create internship and networking possibilities for applied experience.
• Preparation for next steps: the curriculum is designed to prepare students for graduate programmes in physics, engineering, medical physics and related fields, as well as for immediate entry into technical careers.