Brookings Main Campus
Unlock the Mysteries of the Universe to Shape Your Future!
Some breakthroughs are slight, like measuring the exact trajectory of a launched projectile. Others are monumental, like developing groundbreaking theories that explain the fundamental forces of nature. Whatever the puzzle, the world needs creative thinkers to imagine and implement solutions.
At SDSU, we train and equip such thinkers to understand the fundamentals of Physics, to conduct sound research, and to tackle the challenges of our modern world. We provide ample opportunities to experiment and discover your own unique interests. The Physics curriculum has the flexibility to accommodate a wide range of student interests and careers. These include physics research, medicine, nuclear science, biophysics, business and finance, military, oceanography, geophysics/geography and many others. SDSU's physics curriculum is designed to give you the freedom to seek training in the areas that fascinate and motivate you – whether you aspire to be a scientist, an engineer, an educator or an innovator.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Are a creative problem solver and enjoy figuring out how things work.
- Are curious about fundamental principles of the universe.
- Enjoy creating mathematical solutions to fundamental problems.
- Want a degree offering diverse career opportunities.
Career Opportunities
- Research physicist (government labs, universities or high-tech industries)
- Applications and project engineering
- Professional schools (medicine, law, MBA, etc.)
- Science writing
- Higher education
Recent Employers
- U.S. Air Force and Navy
- Interstate Control Systems
- Daktronics
- Graduate school in electrical engineering, medical physics, physics and nuclear engineering
- Xcel Energy
Internship Opportunities
- National Science Foundation – research experiences for undergraduates
- NASA – research experiences for undergraduates
- Los Alamos National Laboratory
- Raven Industries
Suggested Certificates
Suggested Dual Majors
Suggested Minors
Clubs and Organizations
- Society of Physics Students
- Sigma Pi Sigma
- Astronomy Club
- American Medical Student Association
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.