Fall
- ENGR 101: Intro to Engineering............ 3cr.
- PHYSICS 170: University Physics I............ 3cr.
- PHYSICS 171: Exploration in Physics I............ 1cr.
- MATHEMATICS 170: Calculus I............ 4cr.
- CORE 100, First Year Seminar............ 3cr.
- CORE 101, GOA............ 0cr.
- Second Language 103 level............ 3cr.
Spring
- PHYSICS 172: University Physics II............ 3cr.
- ENGR 173: Explorations in Engineering or PHYS 173............ 3cr.
- MATHEMATICS 171: Calculus II............ 4cr.
- THEOLOGY 111: Theological Foundations............ 3cr.
- CORE 102, GOA............ 0cr.
- Second Language 201 level............ 3cr.
Fall
- PHYSICS 242: Circuit Analysis I............ 3cr.
- PHYSICS 243: Circuit Analysis I Lab............ 1cr.
- PHYSICS 330: Modern Physics I............ 3cr.
- PHYSICS 331: Modern Physics I Lab............ 2cr.
- MATHEMATICS 220: Calculus III............ 4cr.
- ENGL 101: Composition............ 3cr.
Spring
- PHYS 355: Advanced Lab............ 3cr.
- ENGR 244, Electronics............ 3cr.
- ENGR 244, Electronics Lab............ 1cr.
- ENGR 180: Intro to Mathlab............ 1cr.
- MATHEMATICS 230: Differential Equations............ 3cr.
- PHILOSOPHY 100: Ethics as Intro to Philosophy............ 3cr.
Fall
- PHYSICS 360: Electromagnetism I............ 3cr.
- MATH Elective............ 3cr.
- ENGR 370: Fluid mechanics............ 3cr.
- Lit. & Moral Imagination............ 3cr.
- Historical Perspective elective............ 3cr.
Spring
- PHYSICS 364: Physical Optics............ 3cr.
- PHYSICS 365: Physical Optics Lab............ 1cr.
- PHYSICS 350: Theoretical Mechanics............ 3cr.
- PHYSICS 382: Thermodynamics............ 3cr.
- Program Elective............ 3cr.
- Theological Perspectives elective............ 3cr.
Fall
- PHYSICS 376: Quantum Mechanics I............ 3cr.
- PHYSICS 395: Physics Research............ 1cr.
- PProgram Elective............ 3cr.
- Creative Perspectives elective............ 3cr.
- Social Sciences Elective............ 3cr.
- Div. Flag* or Free Elective............ 3cr.
Spring
- ENGR 342 - Material Science............ 3cr.
- PHYSICS 398: Physics Thesis............ 1cr.
- Program Elective............ 3cr.
- Humanities Elective............ 3cr.
- PHIL 200: Philosophical Perspectives............ 3cr.
- ER/S Flag* or Free Elective (if needed)............ 3cr.
Exciting Career Opportunities
Design Engineer, Materials Engineer, Process Engineer, Physicist, Research Analyst, Research Scientist, Science Teacher/Professor, Web Developer
Professional Development
Xavier's Career Development Office assists students in their search for employment by offering individual career counseling sessions, conducting workshop series on interviewing and resume writing techniques and maintaining an educational, vocational and employer information resource center. More than 100 nationally known companies visit the campus annually to interview graduating seniors for positions in business and industry.
Physics I (PHYS 170)
This calculus-based course explores fundamental concepts in mechanics, including: kinematics, force analysis, conservation of energy and conservation of momentum. Strong emphasis is placed on the application of these concepts toward problem solving. Students taking this course are expected to be proficient in basic trigonometry and algebra.
Explorations in Physics I (PHYS 171)
This lab course is a a direct, hands on exploration of forces and motion. Emphasis is placed on data acquisition and analysis, experimental design, proper notebook techniques and effective presentation of results.
Astrophysics (PHYS 388)
This advanced course focuses on the practical application of classical and modern physics principles to explore astronomical phenomena. Students delve into topics such as orbital mechanics, stellar birth and progression, compact celestial bodies, the structure and emergence of galaxies, and the study of the universe's origins and development.
Introduction to Fabrication (ENGR 101)
This course introduces students to a variety of traditional and modern tools and techniques for making physical objects. Students will develop a basic understanding of health and safety in a workshop environment and will develop an understanding of how to use these tools and techniques.
Physics Club
Students in the Physics Club organize trips to national labs, host cool experiment series and events that connect to physics, like ice skating (friction!) and water balloon launches.
Alchemyst Club
Ever been to a liquid nitrogen ice cream social? This club is made up of chemistry enthusiasts who love to experiment and discuss the ins and outs of the study of matter.
Computer Science Club
Members of this club are computer science enthusiasts who collaborate to create innovative projects. Members strive to explore emerging areas of computer science while offering resources for individual development.
Minorities in STEM Succeeding Together
Become part of a supportive community dedicated to empowering minority STEM majors. Discover a space where you can thrive, connect with peers and build confidence in your identity while pursuing excellence in STEM.
Program Features
You'll gain extensive practical experience through guided research in our laboratories, working with advanced equipment and engaging in real-world experiments.
Learn from expert faculty at Xavier, whose research spans cutting-edge fields like biophysics, condensed matter physics, optics, theoretical astrophysics, and wearable electronics.
Guided by our Jesuit values, you'll learn to apply your scientific knowledge not just for innovation, but for the betterment of humanity.
Located in Cincinnati, Ohio, Xavier University is situated within a vibrant economic region with strong industries in manufacturing, technology, healthcare and research.
Meet a senior physics major who has done the unexpected and whose story highlights how Xavier student research changes lives.
Are you a high school student with a passion for science, technology, engineering or math? Join STEAM@XU for a week-long immersive research experience on the Xavier University campus.
FAQ
Our comprehensive program provides a deep dive into the theoretical and experimental foundations of physics. Learn more.
A physics degree opens up a wide range of career opportunities, thanks to the strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical skills it imparts. Here are some common career paths:
Research
- Physicist: Conducting research in various fields, such as particle physics, astrophysics, or condensed matter physics
- Research scientist: Working in industries like aerospace, biotechnology, or materials science
- Academic researcher: Teaching and conducting research at universities
Engineering
- Electrical engineer: Designing and developing electrical systems and components
- Mechanical engineer: Designing and developing mechanical systems and devices
- Optical engineer: Designing and developing optical systems and devices
- Materials engineer: Developing new materials with specific properties
Technology
- Software engineer: Developing computer software and applications
- Hardware engineer: Designing and developing computer hardware
- Nanotechnologist: Working with materials at the atomic and molecular level
- Robotics engineer: Designing and developing robots
Bachelor of Science in Physics
The BS in Physics program at Xavier is designed for students who want a deep, foundational understanding of the universe's fundamental constituents: matter and energy. This program is typically more theoretical and aims to equip students with the comprehensive knowledge of mathematical and experimental physics needed for:
- Graduate studies in physics or closely related fields.
- Professional careers in physics research, often in industrial settings.
- Physics teaching at various levels.
It focuses on understanding why things work at a fundamental level, exploring topics from subatomic particles to cosmology with a strong emphasis on mathematical formalism and theoretical concepts.
Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics
The BS in Applied Physics program, while still providing a robust physics foundation, places a stronger emphasis on the application of scientific principles to solve real-world problems and innovate. This degree is often more interdisciplinary and is geared towards students who want to:
- Integrate physics knowledge with other fields, such as engineering, medical sciences, business, or education, through an "Alternate Concentration" option (which can align with a minor).
- Pursue careers where they design, build, and troubleshoot, asking "what can I do with an electron?" rather than solely "what is an electron?".
- Enter fields like engineering (electrical, mechanical, aerospace), data science, medical physics, materials science, or renewable energy.
This program often includes more coursework that bridges physics with engineering or other applied sciences, offering greater flexibility for students with diverse career interests outside of traditional theoretical physics research.
Yes. The University Scholars Honors Program offers incoming students a more challenging curriculum and close support from professors while completing their undergraduate degree. Acceptance into the program is highly selective and includes a $2000 travel grant. Learn more about the University Scholars Honors Program.
Physics Program at Xavier University
The Physics program at Xavier provides a close interaction between faculty and students. Research laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and all principal faculty members are active researchers. In short, Physics at Xavier offers: A strong community that encourages team work, active research laboratories that offer undergraduate research opportunities and physics in a liberal arts setting which strengthens logical and communicative skills.
Xavier University’s College of Arts and Sciences challenges students to develop an integrated understanding of humanity, the world, and God by pursuing the questions raised in Xavier's core and departmental curricula. The College of Arts and Sciences is the oldest and largest college at Xavier University. The college provides an excellent liberal arts education in the Jesuit tradition that prepares students for careers, professional or graduate school, and life in a global society.
Xavier University is a private university located in Cincinnati, Ohio, providing a liberal arts education in the Jesuit Catholic tradition. Founded in 1831, the University is the sixth-oldest Catholic university in the nation. It has been ranked among the top 10 master's-level universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report for the past two decades. The Princeton Review names it one of the "Best 385 Colleges in America."