University of South Alabama

What you'll study

The programme builds a solid foundation in classical and modern physics, mathematical methods and experimental techniques before introducing focused topics in nuclear and particle physics. Core coursework typically includes classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and modern physics, supported by a sequence of mathematics courses (calculus, differential equations, linear algebra) and computational physics.

Specialist and upper-level modules that students take to pursue the nuclear and particle physics emphasis commonly include nuclear physics, particle physics and quantum field theory introductions, radiation physics and detection, radiation safety and health physics, experimental methods in physics, electronics and instrumentation, and numerical methods for physicists. Students complete several laboratory courses where they gain hands-on experience with vacuum systems, detectors, scintillators, semiconductor detectors, and data acquisition systems, as well as a senior capstone project or honours thesis involving experimental or computational research.

Practical training is emphasised: laboratory classes, computational projects using programming languages and data-analysis tools, and opportunities for summer research or internships with faculty-led groups. Interdisciplinary electives in applied mathematics, computer science, and engineering are available to complement technical skills.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Science in Physics programme typically requires a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong record in mathematics and the physical sciences. Applicants are expected to have completed courses in algebra, geometry, precalculus or calculus, and high-school physics; chemistry is recommended. Where standardised tests are considered, the university evaluates the overall academic profile—specific test score thresholds are not stated here.

Transfer students should present college-level coursework in calculus and introductory physics. International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic preparation and meet the university's English language proficiency requirements. In addition to academic preparation, successful applicants benefit from demonstrated interest in physics through laboratory experience, research projects, or relevant extracurricular activities.

Career prospects

Graduates with a physics degree concentrating in nuclear and particle physics have diverse career paths. Many continue to graduate study (master's or PhD) in nuclear physics, particle physics, astrophysics, medical physics, or related fields to pursue research and academic careers. For those entering the workforce directly, typical roles include positions in national and regional laboratories, radiation safety and health physics, instrumentation and detector development, nuclear power and energy sectors, and technical roles in aerospace and manufacturing.

Transferable skills developed in the programme—quantitative problem solving, experimental design, programming, data analysis and technical communication—also prepare graduates for careers in data science, software engineering, consulting, patent law (with additional qualification), and STEM education. The programme’s emphasis on laboratory skills and internships makes graduates attractive to employers who need hands-on experimental and instrumentation expertise.

Why study at University of South Alabama

The University of South Alabama offers a supportive setting for undergraduate physics students, with small class sizes, accessible faculty and opportunities for one-to-one mentorship. The Department of Physics and Astronomy provides modern teaching laboratories, research-grade detectors and electronics, and computational resources suited to experimental and theoretical projects. Undergraduate students are encouraged to take part in research alongside faculty, present at conferences, and pursue summer internships.

Located in the Gulf Coast region, the university benefits from regional industry and research partnerships that create internship and employment pathways in engineering, energy, healthcare technologies and maritime industries. The campus environment and advising structure are designed to prepare students either for immediate technical employment or for competitive applications to graduate programmes in physics and related disciplines.