Physics - The Foundation of Modern Science

A knowledge and understanding of the principles of physics not only leads to an understanding of the physical world but also supplies the scientist with the insight to develop new and innovative ideas.

The Physics Department at Suffolk University offers several programs leading to a Bachelor of Science degree:

• Physics
• Astrophysics
• Environmental Engineering (BSE)
• Medical Sciences/Radiation Biology

Physics

The Suffolk University Physics major provides a traditional background in classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, modern physics and quantum mechanics with electives to allow a student to explore special interest areas.

Astrophysics

The Astrophysics track aims to provide a rigorous and quantitative grounding in Astrophysics for students who enjoy Applied Mathematics and Physics, sufficient to lay a firm foundation for progress into postgraduate work in the field. It will also expose students to observational astronomy at a sufficient level to allow them understand observational results, and to appreciate the interrelationship between observation and theory. The track will provide a sufficient introduction to observational astronomy to allow students to progress to further observational studies. Computational astrophysics modeling is also an integral part of the new track with emphasis in supercomputing.

The Environmental Engineering Program

Environmental Engineering graduates make a positive impact on the quality of life for millions of people. The Environmental Engineering Program provides students with the necessary background in physics, mathematics, biology and chemistry to help to make better use of our water, air and soil resources for a sustainable environment. Environmental Engineering has been recognized by the Bureau of Labor Statistics as one of the majors for which there is a growing shortage. The shortage of qualified environmental engineers will become acute during the next ten years. Global warming, pollution, natural disasters, and enforcement of regulations all produce problems requiring solutions by trained environmental engineers.

Medical Sciences Program

The Radiation Biology Program is designed to educate and provide clinical training for radiation therapists who make use of radiation in the treatment of cancer. The program was designed jointly with the Biology Department and several local area hospitals to address the pressing need for radiation therapists. As one of only 28 four-year accredited programs in the US in radiation therapy, the program includes clinical rotations on site in local hospitals. The radiation therapists take licensing examinations upon completion of their degree and are sought after by local area hospitals to work in radiation oncology departments.

Science in a collegial atmosphere

The Physics Department enjoys a pleasant and collaborative working atmosphere. Classes are small and the faculty work closely with the students. There is much teamwork on interesting projects and a great pride in teaching. One faculty member was the recipient of the Carnegie Foundation Award for Professor of the Year in Massachusetts during 2005.

Career opportunities

The employment rate among physicists has been consistently above the national average, and is one of the highest among science majors.

The Physics program and the Environmental Engineering program also prepare students for graduate work in their fields. Because of the potential for rapid career advancement, capable students are encouraged to look beyond the four year degree and pursue a PhD in Physics or Environmental Engineering.

Students who graduate in the clinical track of Radiation Biology have the opportunity to take the licensing examination to become certified Radiation Therapists. Such students have excellent job opportunities and are often offered positions in the local area hospitals where they did clinical training.

Students interested in teaching in the secondary school system may take educational courses to obtain initial licensure so that they may teach in local high schools upon graduation.