Degree in Physics

We’ll help you expand your natural curiosity with our supportive program of hands-on learning that involves you in research from your very first year. Whether you like to experiment with electricity or want to understand the big bang theory, you’ll do just that as you work on project-based teams that help you understand physics principles and apply them to engineering problems.

Students may also opt for accelerated study to earn a BS/MS degree in five years.

The WPI Way

If you’re interested in a physics degree at WPI, discover our award-winning faculty, cutting-edge research, and world-changing projects, along with the inspiring accomplishments of our alumni.

Physics Department

Curriculum

Our tailored degree in physics means you’ll study the path that interests you most, and our faculty will encourage you to reach your biggest potential. The major course work in classes like Mechanics or Electricity and Magnetism will let you explore physics fundamentals. You can then focus your expertise with chemistry, engineering, electronics, or computer science courses that will teach you how to apply the physics principles you’ve learned to engineering and scientific problems.

With your classroom and lab work, you’ll think critically and get the hands-on experience in solving real-world problems. Working on groundbreaking research emphasizes the skills you’ll need to explore the world around you as a working physicist. WPI faculty offer many research groups that allow students to delve into specific topics like Nanoscience or Biophysics.

Project-based Learning

Hands-on, project-based learning is the cornerstone of the WPI experience, and a big reason why you’ll stand out to employers. As a Fintech major, your options might include supporting faculty research, conducting projects off-campus in the U.S. or abroad, and finding your niche.

Learn More About Project-Based Learning

More Value

Whether it’s real-world work experience through a co-op or internship, accelerating your path with a BS/MS program, or even finding opportunities to integrate coursework with extracurricular interests, personalizing your education at WPI pays off. See how WPI changes your path.

Return on Investment

Consider a Minor in Physics

If you’re interested in physics but not sure you want to major in it, consider earning a minor in it or a related field like astrophysics or nanoscience. With a minor in physics, you’ll gain both a well-rounded understanding of the field and experience needed to solve real-world engineering problems. A minor in astrophysics focuses on the evolution of the universe and structures of space, while a minor in neuroscience offers hands-on experience while studying how molecules, materials, devices, and living matter behave.

Continue Your Education with an MS or PhD

If you’ve already earned a degree in physics and are looking for more, WPI is the perfect place to continue your education. While pursuing a master’s in physics at WPI, you’ll combine essential theoretical knowledge of physics principles with groundbreaking research to solve problems everywhere from a pharmaceutical lab to a lecture hall. Taking your education even further, the PhD in physics will give you all the skills and experience you need to lead transformative research and contribute to faculty research projects focused on light scattering, nanomechanics, fiber optics, and quantum computers.

Explore the World of Applied Physics

Looking to continue your physics education beyond a bachelor’s degree? Structure your own academic and professional path in everything from photonics to medical physics with a master’s degree in applied physics at WPI. You can also take the next step with a PhD in applied physics, where you’ll be able to align your research goals and interests with your career path through close collaboration with your faculty advisor and peers and faculty in other disciplines.