Bachelor of Science [B.S] [Physics: Astro/Space Physics] From West Virginia University

All faculty are expected to maintain active research programs, and through such activity, professors are able to effectively convey state-of-the-art knowledge that prepares students to fully participate in today?s working environments. Faculty members are conducting research sponsored by NASA, the National Science Foundation, the US Department of Energy, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Air Force Office of Scientific Research, the Office of Naval Research, and the U.S. Department of Defense.

Advanced courses include mathematical physics, optics, atomic physics, theoretical mechanics, quantum mechanics, astrophysics, solid state physics, electromagnetic theory, nuclear physics, plasma physics and many other topics. This variety allows flexibility in designing a plan of study.

Physicists are employed in a wide variety of industrial, government and educational settings. For example, industries focusing on medical research, semiconductors, lasers, optics, software development, environmental cleanup and communications hire physicists because of their broad knowledge of many areas of technology. Government agencies such as NASA, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Energy also provide excellent career opportunities. Many jobs in physics involve fundamental research while others cross disciplines and involve the management of technology, the start-up of companies, and even investment and stock market analysis. Career paths for physicists include secondary education, medical school, patent law, forensics, health physics, environmental engineering, journalism, government policy and business management.