About

The concepts of physics are basic to matter, energy and all phenomena. They help us understand how the world around us works, from cell phones to tsunamis, anatomy to cathedrals and DNA to black holes. Physics is the basis for modern technology, and for the tools and instruments used in medicine, engineering, manufacturing and other sciences.

Students in Appalachian State University’s Bachelor of Science in Physics – Applied Physics degree receive the guidance and instruction to harness these concepts. Whether you choose to continue on to graduate school or pursue a career in industries such as computing, engineering, biotechnology, nanotechnology or statistics, you will be equipped with the necessary knowledge, technical training and problem-solving skills to handle many challenges.

BS majors can add flexibility to their education by including electives in mathematical physics, medical physics, astrophysics, electronics, philosophy and physics, chemical physics and more. Combine that with access to top-notch resources including Dark Sky Observatory, millions of dollars worth of electron microscopes and an atmospheric physics research station funded by NASA, Appalachian’s Department of Physics and Astronomy is an extraordinary place to learn and grow.

After Graduation

Employment: Students have gone on to work for American Physical Society, Clarkston Consulting, EcoGreen Energy Solutions, National Instruments, Halliburton, Campbell Scientific, BMW Manufacturing and Qorvo.

Graduate School: Students who choose to continue their education have gone on to graduate programs at the following schools:

• Appalachian State University – Engineering Physics
• North Carolina State University – Materials Engineering, Electrical Engineering
• Wake Forest University – Physics
• Stanford University – Aerospace Engineering
• Duke University – Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics
• University of California-Los Angeles – Civil Engineering
• Clemson University – Astrophysics
• Indiana University-Bloomington – Astrophysics
• UNC-Charlotte – Physics, Optical Sciences
• Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute – Nuclear Engineering
• University of Maryland – Chemical Physics
• Rochester Institute of Technology – Microelectronics Engineering

Career Exploration website

People

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  Student Profile: Kara Snow

  The summer before entering college, Kara Snow asked Dr. Dan Caton if he would allow her to join his astronomy research team. Much to her surprise, he agreed. With his guidance, she imaged her first binary star system before beginning her first year at Appalachian. She has since become president of demonstrations for the university’s Dark Sky Observatory.

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  Alumna Profile: Nykesha Fyffe ’17

  Now a graduate student at North Carolina A&T State University, Nykesha Fyffe plans to use applied physics to improve lives and solve problems of the future.

• Faculty Profile: Dr. Jennifer L. Burris

  “When you graduate with this degree, you’ll join one of the highest paid and employed professions out there.”

  – Professor Jennifer L. Burris

  Meet more faculty

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  Alumnus Profile: Brian Myer

  “A physics degree opens a surprising number of doors.”

  – Brian Myer ’06, research and development engineer for Optimax Systems Inc.

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  Student Profile: Aeron McConnell

  McConnell came to Appalachian fascinated by math. Then, an introductory physics course turned him on to a new love. Now, he’s majoring — and succeeding — in both disciplines.

Related Programs

• Physics (BA)
• Physics (BS) – Secondary Education

Minors

A minor is optional.

View all minors

Engagement Outside the Classroom

The Physics and Astronomy Club – Members of the club are dedicated to educating the public on various topics of physics and astronomy. Throughout the year they plan and take part in social activities, service-oriented projects and community outreach efforts.

Membership in the club links students to the following international organizations:

• The Optical Society (OSA) – An international scientific society dedicated to advancing the study of light.
• International Society of Optics and Photonics (SPIE) – A not-for-profit international professional society dedicated to advancing scientific research and engineering applications of optics and photonics through international conferences, trade exhibitions and continuing education programs.

Global Learning

Appalachian is committed to introducing students to different cultures and teaching them how to live and interact in a global society.

Admission Requirements

There are no admission requirements beyond admission to Appalachian State University.