University of Southern Mississippi

What you'll study

This programme builds a strong foundation in classical and modern physics before moving to specialised subjects in nuclear and particle physics. Core topics include classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, quantum mechanics, and mathematical methods for physicists. Practical skills are developed through sequential laboratory courses and an advanced experimental laboratory where students carry out independent measurements and data analysis.

Specialist modules and topics you can expect to study or encounter include:

• Introductory and intermediate quantum mechanics focused on atomic and nuclear systems
• Nuclear physics covering nuclear structure, decay modes, reaction mechanisms and detection techniques
• Particle physics fundamentals including particle properties, symmetries, and interactions
• Radiation physics and instrumentation: principles of radiation detection, spectroscopy, and dosimetry
• Computational physics and numerical methods for modelling nuclear processes and analysing experimental data
• Advanced laboratory projects or a senior capstone project involving experimental design, detector use and uncertainty analysis
• Supporting mathematics courses (calculus, differential equations, linear algebra) and elective options such as electronics, materials science or introductory accelerator physics

Undergraduates are encouraged to take part in research projects with faculty, summer research programmes, or internships that give hands‑on experience with detectors, data acquisition systems and analysis tools used in nuclear and particle physics.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent. Successful candidates typically have strong preparation in mathematics (including pre‑calculus and preferably calculus) and high school physics. Typical application review considers the academic transcript, recommendations and evidence of quantitative ability.

For direct entry into the physics major, students should be ready to start calculus in their first year; placement or preparatory coursework may be required for those who have not completed sufficient mathematics. International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic qualifications and English language proficiency according to the university's admissions policies.

Career prospects

Graduates with a physics degree emphasising nuclear and particle physics have a range of career paths. Graduates commonly pursue:

• Postgraduate research (MSc/PhD) in nuclear physics, particle physics, medical physics or related fields
• Technical roles in instrumentation, radiation detection, accelerator facilities and laboratories
• Careers in healthcare physics and radiation safety following additional certification or postgraduate training
• Data science, software development and engineering roles that value strong quantitative and programming skills
• Positions in government agencies, national laboratories and industry where measurement, analysis and problem solving are central
• Teaching positions at schools and colleges (often requiring teacher certification)

The programme prepares students for both employment and further study by emphasising experimental competence, computational methods and clear scientific communication.

Why study at University of Southern Mississippi

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Southern Mississippi offers a supportive undergraduate environment with opportunities for close faculty mentorship and undergraduate research experience. Small class sizes allow personal attention in the classroom and laboratory while core courses provide rigorous preparation in mathematics and experimental techniques.

Students benefit from access to modern laboratory equipment, computing resources and opportunities to work on supervised research projects that build CVs for graduate school or technical employment. The location and network of regional employers and research partners also facilitate internships and applied learning experiences. The programme is designed to be flexible so students can tailor electives toward instrumentation, computation, or preparation for postgraduate training in medical or nuclear physics.