Doane University

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad foundation in classical and modern physics with specialised coursework and laboratory experience relevant to nuclear and particle physics. You will study the fundamental theory alongside practical techniques used to detect and analyse subatomic particles, and gain competence in mathematical and computational methods used in contemporary research.

• Core courses: Classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermal and statistical physics, and mathematical methods for physicists.
• Specialist nuclear and particle modules: Introduction to nuclear physics, particle physics and elementary particles, radiation and detection methods, and nuclear instrumentation.
• Laboratories and practical work: Progressive physics labs, electronics for physicists, radiation detection labs, and experience with data acquisition systems and particle detectors.
• Computational training: Computational physics, programming for scientific applications, data analysis and statistical methods applied to experimental datasets.
• Research and capstone: Independent senior research project or thesis in experimental or computational nuclear/particle physics supervised by faculty, often involving instrumentation development, data analysis or modelling.
• Complementary studies: Mathematics sequence (calculus, differential equations, linear algebra), and elective science or engineering courses to broaden technical skills; communication and ethics courses common to a liberal-arts curriculum.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary-school qualification with strong preparation in mathematics and physics. Typical offers look for evidence of performance in advanced mathematics (calculus where available) and introductory physics, together with a record of solid overall achievement.

• High-school diploma or equivalent with strong grades in mathematics and physics.
• Evidence of quantitative ability — coursework, test scores, or equivalent experience in calculus or advanced mathematics is desirable.
• Personal statement outlining interest in physics and relevant experiences; letters of recommendation that can comment on academic potential are helpful.
• Transfer applicants will be assessed on college-level transcripts; prior completion of introductory physics and calculus courses is advantageous.

Career prospects

Graduates with a physics degree concentrating on nuclear and particle physics enter a wide range of careers. Many continue to postgraduate study in physics, nuclear engineering, medical physics or related fields. Others apply their analytical and technical skills in industry, government laboratories and education.

• Research roles and graduate study in nuclear, particle or experimental physics.
• Technical positions in the nuclear power sector, radiation safety, health physics and instrumentation companies.
• Careers in medical physics and diagnostic imaging (typically requiring further professional training or postgraduate qualification).
• Laboratory technician or R&D roles in industry, including detector development, instrumentation and applied physics groups.
• Data analysis, software and computational roles where quantitative problem-solving is required.
• Secondary-school science teaching and outreach after appropriate certification or further training.

Why study at Doane University

Doane offers a small, student-centred learning environment where physics students work closely with faculty on research and lab projects. The liberal-arts context ensures strong communication and critical-thinking skills alongside technical training. Undergraduates have opportunities for mentored research, access to modern teaching laboratories and instrumentation, and support in preparing for graduate school or industry careers.

• Small class sizes and close faculty mentorship that enable hands-on laboratory learning and independent research.
• Opportunities for undergraduate research and capstone projects that provide practical experience in experimental and computational methods.
• Interdisciplinary education that pairs physics with mathematics, computer science and engineering options, including established pathways for students pursuing professional engineering degrees.
• Supportive career guidance and links to regional industry, laboratories and internships to help students transition into employment or graduate study.