Christopher Newport University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary bachelor’s integrates foundational physics with modern computing. You will study classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and quantum/modern physics alongside coursework in calculus, linear algebra and statistics to build a strong mathematical base. Computing modules cover programming fundamentals, data structures and algorithms, systems programming, software engineering and numerical methods for scientific computing.

The programme emphasises hands-on laboratory work and computational practice: expect advanced lab courses in optics, electronics and instrumentation, dedicated computational physics or numerical analysis labs, and project-based modules that combine hardware and software. A final-year capstone or senior research project requires you to design, implement and present an original applied project—examples include sensor systems with embedded software, simulations of physical systems, machine-learning analysis of experimental data or development of control software for instrumentation.

Optional electives allow specialisation in areas such as signal processing, computational modelling, image analysis, robotics, or high-performance computing, and the curriculum encourages undergraduate research with faculty mentors and collaborative projects with campus research centres.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor programme normally requires a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in mathematics (including pre-calculus or calculus) and science (preferably physics). Prior experience with programming is beneficial but not mandatory; introductory programming courses are provided for students who need them. Successful applicants typically demonstrate problem-solving ability, quantitative preparation, and academic readiness for a rigorous STEM curriculum.

Typical preparation includes coursework in algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and laboratory science. Applicants who have completed AP, IB or other college-level mathematics and physics credits may place into advanced courses. Transfer applicants should expect to present college transcripts and descriptions of completed science and computing courses to determine transfer credit and appropriate course placement.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a broad range of technical careers because the degree combines strong analytical physics training with practical software and computational skills. Common career paths include:

• Software development and engineering—designing and building applications, particularly those that require numerical methods or real-time data processing.
• Data science and analytics—applying statistical and computational techniques to experimental or business datasets.
• Instrumentation and applied research—working on sensor systems, measurement devices and laboratory automation in industry or national laboratories.
• Systems engineering and embedded systems—developing firmware, control systems and integrated hardware–software solutions.
• Graduate study and research—preparation for master’s or PhD programmes in physics, applied physics, computer science, engineering or related disciplines.

Alumni typically find roles in technology companies, engineering firms, research institutions and government or national laboratories; the combination of physics and computing is particularly valued in sectors that require modelling, simulation, and quantitative instrumentation.

Why study at Christopher Newport University

Christopher Newport University offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and a strong focus on undergraduate mentorship, making it well suited to hands-on, faculty-guided research experiences. Students benefit from close contact with faculty in both the physics and computer science areas, opportunities for collaborative projects and a curriculum designed to integrate laboratory work with computing practice.

The university’s location in the Hampton Roads region provides proximity to national laboratories, research centres and high-technology employers, which supports internship and collaborative opportunities. CNU emphasises experiential learning—through summer research, internships and a capstone project—so students graduate with practical experience and a portfolio of applied work to show employers or graduate schools.