Indiana University Bloomington

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in classical and modern physics before moving into specialised topics in nuclear and particle physics. Early-year core courses typically include mechanics, electromagnetism, waves and optics, introductory quantum mechanics, thermal and statistical physics, and multivariable calculus. Laboratory and computational skills are emphasised through introductory and intermediate physics labs and courses in numerical methods and data analysis.

In later years, students study advanced quantum mechanics, atomic and molecular physics, and courses specifically focused on subatomic phenomena such as nuclear physics, particle physics, and radiation physics. Typical advanced modules and topics you can expect include:

• Quantum mechanics II: formalism, angular momentum, scattering and perturbation theory
• Nuclear structure and reactions: models of the nucleus, decay processes and reaction mechanisms
• Particle physics: elementary particle classification, symmetries, weak and strong interactions and the standard model
• Experimental methods in nuclear/particle physics: detector principles, radiation measurement, experiment design and uncertainty analysis
• Computational physics and data analysis: programming for simulations, statistical methods for large data sets
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: astrophysics, condensed matter, medical physics, or instrumentation

The degree typically culminates in a senior capstone experience such as an independent research project, honours thesis or an extended laboratory project carried out under faculty supervision. Many students take advantage of summer research internships or collaborative projects with research groups.

Entry requirements

Admission to Indiana University Bloomington follows the university's undergraduate admission process. Successful applicants for the physics major normally present a strong high-school record with emphasis on mathematics and science. Typical preparation includes:

• High-school coursework in calculus (or readiness to begin calculus), physics and chemistry
• Strong achievement in mathematics (algebra, geometry, trigonometry and ideally calculus) and demonstrated problem-solving ability
• Letters of recommendation and a personal statement that speak to quantitative ability, motivation for science and interest in research or laboratory work

International qualifications (for example A-levels, IB or equivalent) are considered; applicants should demonstrate the equivalent level of preparation in mathematics and physics. Placement testing and first-year advising help ensure students enroll in the appropriate calculus and physics courses if additional preparation is needed.

Career prospects

Graduates with a physics degree and emphasis in nuclear and particle physics have a wide range of career options. Many pursue further study (PhD or master's) in physics, applied physics or related fields, preparing for research careers in academia or national laboratories. Other common pathways include:

• Research and technical roles at national laboratories and research centres involved in nuclear science and particle experiments
• Medical physics, radiation safety and health physics after appropriate postgraduate training or certification
• Instrumentation, detector development and engineering roles in industry
• Data science, software development and quantitative analysis roles in finance, technology and consulting
• Secondary-school or community college teaching, often combined with further certification

The programme’s emphasis on laboratory technique, programming and data analysis makes graduates attractive to employers who value quantitative and experimental skills.

Why study at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington offers an established Department of Physics with a balance of teaching and active research. Students benefit from approachable faculty, small-group instruction for advanced courses, and opportunities to join research projects early in their studies. The department supports undergraduate research placements and independent projects, giving hands-on experience with experimental apparatus, data analysis and scientific communication.

The campus setting provides access to interdisciplinary collaborations across engineering, chemistry and astronomy, as well as career services and connections to national research facilities and industry partners. For students interested in nuclear and particle physics, the department’s coursework, laboratory training and research culture provide a strong preparation for graduate study or technical careers in science and technology.