University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

The Engineering Physics degree blends physics theory and experimental practice with engineering design. Early years focus on calculus, linear algebra, classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and introductory laboratory techniques. Core physics modules typically include intermediate and advanced classical mechanics, electrodynamics, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics and mathematical methods for physicists.

Engineering-focused coursework introduces students to circuits and electronics, materials science, control systems, computational methods and numerical modelling. Laboratory and project components are emphasised throughout, with courses in experimental physics, optics and instrumentation, and electronics labs that train students to build and characterise devices.

In the later years students undertake advanced electives or specialisation topics such as photonics and optics, condensed matter and nanoscience, quantum information, plasma physics, aerospace-related dynamics and structures, or energy systems. A significant senior capstone or honours project integrates experimental or computational research with engineering design; many students undertake undergraduate research with faculty or in interdisciplinary research centres.

• Foundations: Calculus sequence, differential equations, linear algebra, introductory physics labs
• Core physics: Classical mechanics, electrodynamics, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics
• Engineering and applied topics: Circuits and electronics, materials science, control systems, numerical methods
• Laboratory and design: Experimental physics labs, optics/laser labs, instrumentation, senior capstone project
• Electives and research: Photonics, nanotechnology, computational physics, aerospace-related modules, energy and sustainability

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school preparation in mathematics (including calculus where available) and physics. Successful candidates typically demonstrate aptitude in problem-solving, laboratory work and quantitative subjects. Admissions decisions take a holistic view of academic record, letters of recommendation and any relevant project or research experience.

For international applicants, equivalent qualifications in mathematics and physics are required, together with proof of English language proficiency where applicable. The programme recognises university-level or advanced placement credit where students have completed relevant higher-level mathematics or science courses prior to entry.

Career prospects

Graduates with an Engineering Physics degree have flexible career pathways. Many proceed to graduate study in physics, applied physics, electrical engineering, materials science or related disciplines. Others enter industry directly in roles that leverage their combined theoretical and practical training.

• Research and development positions in photonics, semiconductors, instrumentation and quantum technologies
• Engineering roles in aerospace, defence, energy and materials companies
• Systems engineering, test and measurement, and product development positions
• Data science, software engineering and modelling roles that require strong quantitative and computational skills
• Technical consulting and positions in national laboratories or government research facilities

Undergraduate research experience, internships and the senior capstone project are especially valuable for transitioning into specialised roles or competitive graduate programmes.

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

CU Boulder is known for strong, closely linked physics and engineering departments that support interdisciplinary training. Students benefit from access to world-class research centres and collaborations, including partnerships with institutions such as JILA and the National Institute of Standards and Technology, which provide laboratory opportunities and exposure to cutting-edge experimental work.

The university’s location in Boulder places students within a vibrant technology and aerospace ecosystem, creating internship and industry collaboration opportunities. CU Boulder emphasises undergraduate research, hands-on laboratory experience and small-team projects, enabling Engineering Physics students to gain practical skills in instrumentation, optics, fabrication and computational methods.

Faculty research strengths span quantum information and photonics, condensed matter and materials science, aerospace-related dynamics, and energy systems — offering a broad array of mentoring and project possibilities for students who want to apply fundamental physics to real-world engineering challenges.