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The B.S. in Applied Physics, with its various emphases, is an exciting and innovative new major at Bethel. Our goal is to develop graduates who are equipped for high-technology employment, interdisciplinary research, and graduate education in applied science and engineering.

Why should I study applied physics with a computational emphasis?

Physics puts great stress on solving problems and applying mathematics and computer modeling to those solutions. The Applied Physics major with a Computational emphasis takes this a step further by allowing students to study even more math and computer methods than a typical physics major would. The Computational emphasis is particularly popular among students who are interested in both physics and math/computer science. Or, because of the overlap with courses in the Math/Computer Science Department, students can more easily earn a double-major in Physics and either Math or Computer Science.  

What can I do with this degree?

There are many and varied career opportunities. Examples:

  • Product Engineer
  • Testing Engineer
  • Programmer
  • Systems Engineer
  • Statistical Analyst
  • Investment Analyst
  • Research Engineer

This broader version of the traditional Physics degree is designed to provide tools and experiences that are especially valuable for moving right into industry after graduation. However, the fundamentals and techniques learned also provide an excellent foundation for graduate work in a variety of fields. Examples include statistics, mathematics, computer science, or any engineering field. 

What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?

As an applied physics major, you’ll have opportunities to collaborate with professors on real-world research projects in our state-of-the-art labs; publish papers in prestigious science journals; present your findings at local and national conferences; intern at a wide range of companies, government agencies, and universities (both national and international); and work as a research assistant during the summer months.

Academic Plans and Course Catalog

See plans

11,800

square feet of physics and engineering labs (doubled since 2016)

$84,983

average salary for physics alumni 10 years after graduation

- U.S. Census Bureau

Upcoming Events

OCT 3 2023

Physics & Engineering Department Seminar

3:30 p.m. Barnes Academic Center - Room 264

Come hear about what’s going on in the Bethel University Physics & Engineering department!

OCT 10 2023

STEM Employer Showcase 2023

6 p.m. Boardroom

Come to learn about STEM job and internship opportunities!

OCT 14 2023

Solar Eclipse Viewing Event

10:30 a.m.

Come join us to watch the partial solar eclipse on Saturday, October 14; we'll have telescopes with solar filters and eclipse glasses available for safe solar viewing.

OCT 17 2023

Physics & Engineering Department Seminar

3:30 p.m. Barnes Academic Center - Room 264

Come hear about what’s going on in the Bethel University Physics & Engineering department!