Department of Physics and Astronomy

Our department is known for the global impact our students, faculty and alumni make with their research and cutting-edge international collaboration. We have ample hands-on research opportunities for all of our students—from undergraduates to graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.

Interdisciplinary Approach

In addition to ensuring you have a solid foundation in all central areas of physics, you'll also have the opportunity to take specialized experimental courses in order to tailor your studies to your own interests or goals. You can also explore our interdisciplinary program, engineering physics. This program will give you the practical problem solving skills that an engineering degree teaches backed up by the theory that physics offers.

Research

As a physics student, we encourage you to take part in some of our many hands-on research opportunities. You have the option to either work with one of our internationally recognized faculty or to design your own research program. These opportunities will give you the skills and confidence to compete in the job market or to pursue a graduate degree.

Public Lecture Series

Each speaker in this series will give an open public lecture presented at a level that is accessible to a general public audience. Talks are designed to engage the broader community of Columbia and South Carolina and will touch on exciting topics at the forefront of physics and astronomy.

Explore the Universe

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.