ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

Physicists seek to understand nature at its most profound level. From the behavior of quarks that are the constituents of protons and neutrons, to superclusters of galaxies, physicists seek to learn the inner workings of nature. As physicists explore new parts of nature, practical applications emerge. In fact, many of the spectacular technologies new to the twentieth century are byproducts of physicists' investigation of nature.

At Whittier, physics is a small department, attracting some of the college's best students to a friendly atmosphere, small classes, opportunities to participate in research, and close interactions between students and faculty.

Courses are often taught in non-traditional format called "Workshop Physics," which emphasizes learning by investigation and extensive use of the departments excellent computing facilities. Physics majors enjoy 24 hour access to the Physics Lounge and Physics Library where students work together on homework, play chess, and simply relax.

The Whittier College Department of Physics offers all of its majors the opportunity to participate in research. Faculty and students engage in research together and have authored papers together. In addition, our students' research experiences have helped them gain admission to top graduate programs and secure positions of responsibility in industry. Moreover, participation in research is just plain fun.

The physics major at Whittier is rigorous and prepares students for entry into Ph.D. programs in physics. But the major is also flexible and offers students options which help prepare them for careers in teaching and employment in industry after graduation. Many of our physics majors also complete a major or minor in mathematics.


To read the recent article "Why Study Physics?" from the American Physical Society's website, please click here.