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Applied Physics Major: Optics Emphasis

Bachelor of Science

With an applied physics: optics degree, you’ll gain specialized expertise in optics, preparing you for diverse career opportunities in technology, research, and academia.

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Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a B.S. in Applied Physics with an optics emphasis, you’ll delve into the principles and applications of optics—a field of physics that offers a very wide range of possible careers. With our state-of-the-art atomic and molecular optics lab, you'll gain hands-on experience and prepare for for high-technology employment, interdisciplinary research, and graduate education in applied science and engineering.

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Why should I study applied physics with an optics emphasis?

Here, you’ll find a Christ-centered learning community where you belong. Your education will center in the Department of Physics and Engineering, where you’ll learn from professors who get to know you personally and invest in your success. And you’ll find unique options and pathways to match your graduate school and career goals.

  • Faith-integrated education
    Ground your applied physics studies in a Christ-centered environment, preparing you to serve with purpose and integrity in your future career. And your professors will model how to be excellent scientists and faithful Christians.

  • Comprehensive coursework
    Our coursework covers a broad spectrum of topics, including geometric optics, wave optics, laser physics, and photonics, providing you with a solid foundation in both theory and application.

  • Strong success in graduate and medical schools
    You’ll be well-equipped to pursue careers that require medical or graduate degrees. And our graduates have a longstanding, excellent success rate in getting into medical programs and pursuing vibrant careers.

  • A flexible, liberal arts foundation
    If you desire a strong liberal arts and science background, you can pursue engineering through one of Bethel's excellent standalone engineering programs or the B.A./B.S. Dual-Degree Engineering program. The dual degree—or “3-2”—program allows students to spend three years taking foundational courses in Bethel’s Christ-centered community before transferring to another university to spend two years working in specialty engineering fields beyond what Bethel offers. And you can pursue graduate pathways to earn a Bethel bachelor’s and a master’s degree in six years.

  • Adaptable courses
    For your first two years, all majors (physics, applied physics, and engineering) start with the same core technical courses, helping you to experience each field and decide which suits you best.

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Connect with a counselor

They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.

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Courses and skills

What skills will I develop?

Throughout the B.S. in Applied Physics with an optics emphasis, you’ll develop a diverse set of skills and competencies essential for success in the field of optics.

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Geometric optics

Master the principles of geometric optics, including reflection, refraction, and image formation, and learn to analyze and design optical systems such as lenses, mirrors, and optical instruments.

Wave optics

Explore the wave nature of light, studying phenomena such as interference, diffraction, and polarization, and learn to apply wave optics principles to analyze and manipulate light waves for various applications.

Laser physics

Gain an understanding of laser operation, including the principles of stimulated emission, population inversion, and laser amplification, and learn to design and characterize laser systems for applications in research, industry, and medicine.

Photonics

Learn about the properties and behavior of photons, the fundamental particles of light, and explore the principles and applications of photonics technologies such as fiber optics, photonic devices, and optical communication systems.

Experimental optics

Develop practical skills in optical experimentation, including laser spectroscopy, optical imaging, and optical measurements, and learn to design and conduct experiments to investigate optical phenomena and validate theoretical models.

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Academic plans

Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.

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Learning opportunities

What experiences will I have?

Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you’ll find numerous opportunities to get involved, apply what you’ve learned, and gain experience by studying abroad or completing amazing internships. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.

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Hands-on research

Engage in cutting-edge research projects in the department’s Atomic and Molecular Optics (AMO) Lab, where you can explore topics such as laser cooling, quantum optics, and nonlinear optics under the guidance of experienced faculty mentors.

Conference presentations

Showcase your research findings and academic achievements at prestigious conferences such as the Optics and Photonics Winter School and Workshop, providing you with valuable opportunities to network with professionals and researchers in the field of optics.

Internships and industry partnerships

Gain practical experience through internships at leading technology companies, research laboratories, and government agencies, where you can apply your skills in real-world settings and build professional connections.

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Real-world impact

What can I do with an applied physics degree?

Upon completing the B.S. in Applied Physics with an optics emphasis, you’ll be well-prepared for graduate school and a wide range of career opportunities in technology, research, and academia.

Optical engineering

Design and develop optical systems and devices for applications such as imaging, sensing, telecommunications, and medical diagnostics.

Photonics research

Conduct research in photonics technologies such as fiber optics, photonic devices, and integrated optical circuits, contributing to advancements in areas such as data communication, renewable energy, and biophotonics.

Laser physics

Explore the principles of laser physics and optical spectroscopy, developing new laser systems and techniques for applications in scientific research, materials processing, and medical therapy.

Biomedical optics

Apply optical techniques such as microscopy, spectroscopy, and imaging to study biological tissues and processes, contributing to advancements in areas such as medical imaging, diagnostics, and therapy.

Academic research

Pursue graduate studies in physics, optics, or a related field, conducting research in university or laboratory settings, and making significant contributions to scientific knowledge and innovation.

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Start your journey

Explore Bethel for yourself

Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.

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Faculty mentors

Meet your professors

You’ll learn alongside faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll know you by name and invest in your success.

Department of Physics & Engineering


Location

Barnes Academic Center (BAC) 244

Contact

Brian Beecken

Brian Beecken

Brian Beecken

Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Alyssa Hamre Kontak

Alyssa Hamre Kontak

Assistant Professor of Physics

Bio >

Julie Hogan

Julie Hogan

Associate Professor of Physics

Bio >

Nathan Lindquist

Nathan Lindquist

Professor of Physics

Bio >

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Wayne Raman-Nair

Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Keith Stein

Keith Stein

Professor of Physics

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Shensheng Tang

Shensheng Tang

Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Nathan Lemke

Nathan Lemke

Adjunct Associate Professor of Physics and Engineering

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Jason Stroup

Adjunct Instructor of Physics and Engineering

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Thomas Greenlee

Thomas Greenlee

Professor of Physics Emeritus

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Richard Peterson

Richard Peterson

University Professor of Physics Emeritus

Bio >

11,800

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

Over 90% of physics alums receive full financial support for graduate work

Student Support

Your support team

At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.

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Career coaching and preparation

A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.

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Academic advising

No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.

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Tutoring and academic support

The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.

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Faith formation

As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.

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Accessible education

Tuition and financial aid

We want you to understand from the beginning what a Bethel education costs. That’s why we made it simple. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences will be $25,990—down from $44,050. This more accurately reflects what you can expect to pay, empowering you to make informed decisions and become who you're meant to be.

Estimate your cost today

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Become A Bethel Student

Apply now

You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.

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Find your fit

Explore related programs

Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.

Explore the full lists:

Majors and minors Preprofessional programs Endorsements