University of Michigan–Flint

What you'll study

The programme builds core knowledge in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics and thermodynamics before introducing specialised topics in nuclear and particle physics. Year-by-year progression typically covers calculus-based introductory physics, intermediate mechanics and electrodynamics, modern physics, laboratory methods, and advanced quantum theory. Dedicated nuclear and particle modules explore nuclear structure, radioactive decay and detectors, particle interactions, accelerator concepts, and experimental methods used in current research.

• Core modules: Calculus-based physics I & II, Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Quantum Mechanics, Statistical/ Thermal Physics, Mathematical Methods for Physics.
• Laboratory and practical work: Introductory and advanced physics labs, instrumentation and electronics, radiation detection and measurement, data analysis techniques and computational physics.
• Specialist modules: Nuclear Physics, Particle Physics/High-Energy Physics, Nuclear Instrumentation, Radiation Safety and Applications, Advanced Experimental Techniques.
• Supporting maths and computing: Calculus, Differential Equations, Linear Algebra, and scientific programming for modelling and data analysis.
• Capstone/Research: Senior research project or independent study with faculty supervision, presentational skills, and the opportunity to participate in ongoing experimental or theoretical investigations.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching combines lectures, small-group tutorials, laboratory sessions and supervised research projects. Assessment typically uses a mixture of problem sets, laboratory reports, oral or poster presentations, and written examinations. Students are encouraged to take part in undergraduate research opportunities and internships that connect coursework to practical problems in nuclear science and particle physics.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in mathematics and science. Successful candidates usually have studied calculus and physics at high-school level and demonstrate strong analytical and quantitative skills. Admissions consider overall academic record, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining interest in physics and research. Prospective students who have not completed calculus may be advised to take preparatory courses before or on entry.

Career prospects

Graduates with a physics degree emphasising nuclear and particle physics have a range of career paths. Many progress to graduate study (MSc/PhD) in experimental or theoretical physics, nuclear engineering or related disciplines. Others move directly into industry roles such as laboratory technician, instrumentation and detector development, radiation safety and health physics, or roles in the energy sector.

• Research technician or associate in academic or national laboratory settings
• Instrument and detector development for medical imaging, security scanning or scientific instrumentation
• Roles in nuclear power, radiological protection, and regulatory agencies
• Further training to become a medical physicist or to enter applied physics and engineering graduate programmes
• Data analysis, software development and technical roles in industries requiring strong quantitative skills
• Secondary-school science teaching (with appropriate certification)

Why study at University of Michigan–Flint

University of Michigan–Flint offers a personalised learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which is particularly valuable in a technical subject like physics. The programme emphasises hands-on laboratory training and undergraduate research, enabling students to gain practical experience with modern instrumentation and data-analysis techniques.

Students benefit from the university's connections within the region, including opportunities for internships and collaborative projects with nearby hospitals, industry partners and the broader University of Michigan system. Academic advising and career services support help students plan for graduate study, professional certifications, or entry into the workforce, making the programme well suited to those who want both a rigorous grounding in physics and clear pathways to careers in nuclear and particle science.