The Department of Physics and Engineering is a dynamic and exciting place to be. It is home to physicists and engineers who are conducting cutting-edge research in a range of multidisciplinary science and high-tech fields including materials science, robotics, environmental air quality, atmospheric science, astrophysics, and physics/astronomy education. This research addresses many of the fundamental aspects of today's technological society, and prepares students to become the problem solvers of tomorrow. The faculty are experts in their fields, and are dedicated to teaching and mentoring students.

The department offers the following undergraduate degree programs:

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Physics
• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Physics
• B.S. in Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering
• Dual-Degree Physics and Civil Engineering
• Dual-Degree Physics and Electrical Engineering
• Dual-Degree Physics and Environmental Engineering
• Dual-Degree Physics and Mechanical Engineering

The dual-degree programs are structured so that students first take courses at Xavier, typically over a three year period, and then transfer to an engineering school for two years of coursework. On completion, the student receives both a physics degree (B.A. or B.S) from Xavier and a B.S. degree in engineering from the engineering school.

The physics and engineering courses are guided by current best practices in physics educational research. Both active learning and peer instruction methods are used in courses. Our curriculum also places an emphasis on developing a strong proficiency in experimental and laboratory techniques. Because the department has a relatively small student to faculty ratio, students get more personal instruction and guidance.

In addition to classes, students have the opportunity to work with faculty on cutting-edge research projects with access to state-of-the-art facilities. Student researchers learn from the professors and play an important role in the research. They also often travel to conferences to present their research.

The department also periodically offers extracurricular programs to students in which they do such things as designing payloads for scientific balloon missions or building a radio telescope. In the past, such programs would also include enriching activities such as visits to NASA facilities and attending talks from aerospace professionals.

There is a strong sense of community within the department amongst the students and faculty. Most of the students know each other and interact with each other outside of classes. Many of our students are also involved in student organizations such as the Society of Physics Students (SPS) and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).

Our students come away from Xavier with a better sense of how to work with and communicate with others in both coursework and research. The Department of Physics and Engineering is a place where students can develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today's rapidly changing world. It is a great place to learn and grow.

Please reach out to us via email (see contact information below) if you would like more information about our department.