Lewis University

What you'll study

The programme builds a solid foundation in classical and modern physics, mathematical methods and experimental techniques before moving into specialised topics in nuclear and particle physics. You will study core subjects such as classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, and introductory and advanced quantum mechanics. Mathematics courses typically include calculus sequence, linear algebra and differential equations, while supporting science courses commonly cover general chemistry and computational methods.

Specialist nuclear and particle modules focus on nuclear structure and reactions, radiation detection and measurement, radioactivity and decay processes, particle physics and fundamental interactions. Laboratory and practical components emphasise radiation instrumentation, spectroscopy, electronics for experiments, data acquisition and analysis. The curriculum normally culminates in a senior capstone experience — a research project, experimental thesis or advanced laboratory course — where students apply experimental or computational methods to a nuclear or particle physics problem.

• Core physics: mechanics, electromagnetism, modern physics, quantum mechanics
• Mathematics: calculus, differential equations, linear algebra
• Laboratory work: intermediate and advanced physics labs, electronics, instrumentation
• Nuclear & particle topics: nuclear structure, radioactivity, radiation detection, particle physics concepts
• Computational & data skills: programming for physics, numerical methods, data analysis
• Capstone: research project or thesis, and opportunities for internships or cooperative placements

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in mathematics and science. Recommended preparatory coursework includes high-school physics, algebra, geometry, trigonometry and calculus; chemistry is also helpful. Admissions typically consider the overall academic record and preparation for rigorous quantitative study. Transfer applicants must submit college transcripts and may need to demonstrate completion of foundational calculus and introductory physics courses.

Because physics training is cumulative, students who lack some prerequisites are usually advised to take preparatory courses before embarking on the full major. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the physics department to discuss individual preparedness and arrangements for placement or foundational coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSc in Physics specialising in Nuclear and Particle Physics enter a range of technical and research-oriented roles or continue to graduate study. Typical pathways include:

• Research technician or assistant positions at national laboratories and university research groups working on nuclear or particle experiments
• Roles in radiation detection, health physics and radiation safety in medical, industrial or regulatory settings
• Positions in instrumentation, electronics and applied measurement industries, including accelerator facilities and detector development
• Further training for careers in medical physics, nuclear engineering or high-energy physics through postgraduate study
• Data-oriented roles such as data analysis, modelling and computational work in industry and finance
• Teaching at secondary level with appropriate certification or additional education

Why study at Lewis University

Lewis University offers a small-campus environment with relatively small class sizes and close access to faculty, which supports hands-on learning and mentoring in experimental physics. The department emphasises laboratory experience and undergraduate research, giving students opportunities to work directly with instrumentation, detectors and data analysis equipment. Lewis’s location within the greater Chicago region provides proximity to national laboratories, research institutions and medical facilities that offer internships and collaborative projects.

The programme is designed to prepare students both for immediate technical employment and for competitive admission to graduate programmes. Advising and career services help students identify internships, undergraduate research placements and post-graduate opportunities. The university’s focus on practical skills, combined with theoretical training, aims to produce graduates ready to contribute in nuclear science, medical and industrial applications or to pursue advanced study in physics.