Physics—understand how nature works.
Physics is crucial to understanding the world around us, the world inside us, and the world beyond us. It is the most basic and fundamental science.
Physics challenges our imaginations with concepts like relativity and string theory, and it leads to great discoveries, like computers and lasers, that lead to technologies which change our lives—from healing joints, to curing cancer, to developing sustainable energy solutions (from the American Physical Society).
If you constantly look below the surface and wonder why things work they way they do, then a career in physics may be for you.
Why study physics?
- It is awesome to study how nature works!
- Develops excellent analytical skills that can be used for jobs over a wide range of fields from financial analyst to engineering.
- You'll prepared for graduate school in physics (which is necessary to for most jobs in physics).
Experience plenty of personal attention and time with high tech equipment.
At Union College, we understand the importance of experience. That's why we connect you with experienced accountants who can teach you valuable lessons—from professors, to local business leaders to mentors in internships.
Why study at Union College?
- Our experienced professors will challenge and stretch you, but they’ll be right beside you all along the way to provide the support you need to succeed.
- Partner with experienced professors who conduct important research.
- Experience a new building that emphasizes open learning and features the latest technology for teaching and research.
Majors and minors
Union College offers three physics degrees:
Physics—four-year bachelor of science degree
2019-2020 Guide | 2020-2021 Guide
Physics—four-year bachelor of arts degree
2019-2020 Guide | 2020-2021 Guide
Physics Education (four-year bachelor of science with secondary endorsement)
2019-2020 Guide
Career options
Physicist
Study the ways in which various forms of matter and energy interact.
Job outlook
14% growth (faster than average)
Median pay
$117,000
Biophysicist
Study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes, such as cell development, growth, heredity, and disease.
Job outlook
11% growth (faster than average)
Median pay
$91,000
Natural sciences manager
Supervise the work of scientists, including chemists, physicists, and biologists.
Job outlook
10% growth (faster than average)
Median pay
$118,000
Meet the faculty
Get to know a little more about our science and math faculty. They all have impressive credentials, and they're pretty cool too.
Division of Science and Mathematics
The our division offers a wide variety of science and math programs.
The Krueger Center
Our facility offers great labs and learning spaces with the latest technology.