Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What you'll study

The BS in Physics emphasises a solid core in classical and modern physics, supported by mathematics, computational methods and experimental laboratory work. Students follow a sequence of core courses in mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics and thermodynamics/statistical mechanics. Laboratory and instrumentation courses teach experimental technique, data analysis and uncertainty estimation.

• Core physics topics: Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Quantum Mechanics, Thermal and Statistical Physics, and Modern Physics.
• Laboratory and experimental skills: Advanced physics labs, electronics, optics, and instrumentation.
• Mathematics and computation: Calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, numerical methods and scientific computing.
• Electives and concentrations: Condensed matter, atomic and molecular physics, nuclear and particle physics, astrophysics, biophysics, and computational physics.
• Capstone Major Qualifying Project (MQP): A substantial team or individual research or design project that integrates physics knowledge with problem-solving, often in collaboration with faculty, industry or other disciplines.
• Project-based learning: The WPI curriculum incorporates project work throughout the degree, including opportunities for interdisciplinary projects and the Interactive Qualifying Project (IQP).
• Undergraduate research and internships: Many students participate in faculty research, national labs, summer programmes or industry co‑ops to gain hands-on experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants should demonstrate strong preparation in mathematics and the physical sciences. Typical successful candidates have completed high-school courses in calculus and physics and have an established record of achievement in STEM subjects.

• Academic background: A strong secondary-school or international-equivalent academic record with emphasis on mathematics and physics.
• Recommended subjects: Calculus (or precalculus preparing for calculus), physics, and chemistry. Coursework in computer science is advantageous.
• Standardised testing and credentials: WPI considers a range of credentials from different educational systems; applicants from systems that submit standardised test scores may include them as part of their application where required or optional.
• Additional materials: Personal statements, teacher or guidance recommendations, and evidence of any research, project work or extracurricular STEM activities will strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BS in Physics from WPI are well prepared for a variety of career paths in industry, government, education and research. The combination of rigorous physics training and project experience makes students attractive to employers who value problem-solving, quantitative analysis and technical communication.

• Graduate study and research: Many graduates continue to master’s or doctoral programmes in physics, applied physics, engineering, materials science, or related fields.
• Industry and technology: Roles in engineering, instrumentation, semiconductor and photonics industries, renewable energy, and aerospace.
• Data and computational careers: Data analyst, quantitative developer, computational scientist and roles in software that require strong modelling and numerical skills.
• Applied and medical physics: With additional professional training or certification, graduates can move into medical physics or applied research positions.
• Education and outreach: Secondary-school teaching (with certification), science communication and museum or laboratory outreach roles.

Why study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

WPI is known for its project-based educational model that gives physics students early and repeated opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems. The Institute supports strong undergraduate research, with accessible faculty mentors and well-equipped laboratories across physics and interdisciplinary centres.

• Project emphasis: The Major Qualifying Project and other team-based projects develop design, collaboration and communication skills prized by employers and graduate programmes.
• Undergraduate research opportunities: Close faculty-student interaction and a culture that encourages students to join ongoing research or initiate independent projects.
• Facilities and interdisciplinary ties: Modern labs, computational resources and collaboration with engineering, biology and materials departments for cross-disciplinary study.
• Career support: Dedicated career services, industry connections and internship/co-op pathways help students translate their degree into employment or advanced study.
• Location and network: Situated in Worcester, Massachusetts, students can access regional research institutions, technology companies and national labs for internships and post-graduation opportunities.