Georgia Southern University

What you'll study

The programme combines a strong core in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and experimental methods with advanced courses that target nuclear and particle physics. Early years focus on calculus-based physics, laboratory skills and mathematical methods for physicists. In later years you will study quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and specialised subjects such as nuclear physics, particle physics, radiation detection and instrumentation.

• Core modules: Classical Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism, Waves and Optics, Modern Physics, and Mathematical Methods for Physics.
• Advanced modules: Quantum Mechanics I & II, Nuclear Physics, Particle Physics, Statistical Mechanics.
• Experimental and practical work: Sequential laboratory courses in general and modern physics, advanced laboratory projects in nuclear and particle detection techniques, electronics for physicists, and data analysis using scientific computing tools.
• Capstone and research: Senior research project or thesis supervised by faculty, offering hands‑on experience in experimental design, data collection and analysis. Opportunities for summer research with faculty, independent study projects, and seminar courses in contemporary topics.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: Courses in computational physics, accelerator physics concepts, medical physics applications, electronics, and courses from related departments such as mathematics, computer science and engineering.

Programme structure

The degree follows a typical undergraduate structure of foundational courses in the first two years, followed by upper-level specialised and lab-based courses. Students accumulate credits through lectures, laboratories, problem‑solving workshops and a final-year research project. Advising helps you select electives and any options for minors or combined study with engineering or mathematics.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in mathematics (including calculus) and physics. Typical preparation includes two years of college‑prep mathematics and at least one year of college‑level or advanced high school physics.

• Academic preparation: Demonstrated competence in calculus and physics; additional coursework in chemistry is beneficial but not always required.
• Standardised tests: Georgia Southern considers standardised test scores according to current institutional policies; consult the admissions office for guidance on testing requirements or test‑optional arrangements.
• Transfer students: Credits from accredited institutions in relevant STEM subjects are evaluated for transfer; students transferring into the physics major typically need to have completed foundational calculus and physics courses with satisfactory grades.
• International students: Equivalent secondary school qualifications and proof of English language proficiency are required as per university admissions rules.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSc in Physics specialising in Nuclear and Particle Physics are prepared for a range of careers in research, industry and the public sector. Many proceed to graduate study (master's and PhD) in physics, nuclear engineering, medical physics or related fields.

• Research and academia: Graduate programmes leading to roles in university or national laboratory research in particle and nuclear physics.
• National laboratories and government: Technical and scientific positions in government research facilities, regulatory agencies and defence-related research.
• Medical and health physics: Careers in radiation safety, medical imaging and nuclear medicine after additional specialised training or certification.
• Industry and engineering: Roles in instrumentation, accelerator and detector development, energy sector (including nuclear energy), and high‑tech companies requiring strong analytical and technical skills.
• Data and computing: Data analysis, software development and quantitative roles in finance, technology and consulting, leveraging strong computational and modelling training.
• Education and outreach: Teaching at secondary or college levels and science communication or outreach positions.

Why study at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern offers a small‑class environment with accessible faculty who are active in research and committed to undergraduate mentoring. The physics programme emphasises hands-on laboratory experience and undergraduate research, enabling students to develop experimental skills and a strong portfolio for graduate applications or technical employment.

Students benefit from campus resources such as modern teaching laboratories, computing facilities and opportunities to engage in faculty-led research projects. Academic advising and career services support internship placement, preparation for professional certification where appropriate, and application to graduate programmes.

The programme is designed to provide both the theoretical foundation and practical experience needed for success in advanced study, national labs, industry or applied fields such as medical physics, making it a solid choice for students focused on nuclear and particle physics.