Engineering Physics Program

The Engineering Physics (EPH) program at Mississippi College interweaves the fundamentals of classical physics, chemistry, and mathematics with engineering applications to prepare students to pursue careers in industry, either directly after undergraduate studies or following graduate study in engineering or physics. Many employers value the unique problem solving approach of physics, especially those whose focus is on research and development.

The engineering physics major allows students with strong interests in both physics and engineering to concentrate their studies in the common areas of these disciplines while keeping their options open between physical sciences and engineering. Because the program emphasizes science and mathematics, students will be well-prepared to pursue graduate studies in either area.

The EPH program at Mississippi College requires students to be well grounded in traditional physics topics such as quantum mechanics, nuclear physics, electromagnetism, statistical mechanics and thermodynamics, and mathematical methods for physicists. Additionally, the EPH program provides students an opportunity to study engineering applications such as statics, strength of materials, fluid mechanics, electrical circuit design, the study of electronics, computational tools, geophysical methods, and a Senior project that emphasizes independent study, report or science article preparation, and presentation of results to an audience.

Traditional Physics Program

Physics has been called the most basic of the sciences, for it seeks to observe, analyze, and categorize the interactions which occur in our whole physical universe. It is the purpose of the physics department to give the student a thorough understanding of the fundamental facts of physics and to acquaint him or her with the scientific approach to knowledge. Also, studying physics trains a person to be a lifetime learner.

Obtaining a physics degree at Mississippi College, whether the emphasis is on traditional physics studies or leaning toward engineering science, will give the student great flexibility in making schooling and career decisions following graduation. In addition to being well prepared for graduate school in physics, the student will find himself /herself ready for engineering studies or work in government or private high-tech industries. Coupled with appropriate courses in biology and chemistry, the physics major can also prepare one for medical school or jobs in biophysics or physical chemistry research.

For those interested in advanced degrees, most graduate students in physics and in many areas of engineering do not pay tuition to go to graduate school, but, in fact, are paid a salary or fellowship by the school or another agency while in graduate school.