Physics

The Bachelor of Science in Physics at the University at Buffalo offers students a comprehensive education in fundamental principles and advanced concepts of physics, preparing them for careers in research, industry, education, and further academic pursuits. The program is designed to develop a deep understanding of classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and statistical physics, providing a strong foundation for analytical and problem-solving skills that are essential in various scientific and technical fields. Students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on laboratory work, fostering practical skills and experiential learning, while also exploring modern topics such as condensed matter physics, astrophysics, and particle physics through specialized electives. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and experimental techniques, enabling graduates to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts and innovative research projects. Additionally, the program encourages students to participate in undergraduate research opportunities, internships, and collaborative projects, promoting a well-rounded educational experience and preparing them for graduate studies or careers in physics, engineering, information technology, and other STEM disciplines. Faculty members are actively involved in cutting-edge research, and students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and resources. The Physics program at UB is committed to fostering critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and technical proficiency, ensuring that graduates are equipped to contribute meaningfully to scientific advancements and technological innovations in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Whether students aim to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce directly, the Physics program provides a rigorous and supportive environment to achieve their academic and professional goals.

Upon successful completion of all requirements, the student will have knowledge of:

• The basic laws of physics, their corollaries, and comprehension of how they can be applied to explain specific natural phenomena
• Critical thinking and problem solving skills in physics, related to hypothesis building, application of the scientific method, and mathematical methods to analyze physics theories and experiments, and devise solution strategies.
• Laboratory skills and exposure to a variety of experiments illustrating important phenomena, measuring techniques, and qualitative analysis of data and uncertainty at appropriate levels
• Contemporary areas of physics inquiry
• Written and oral communication skills for presentation of scientific results

Introductory courses consist of large lectures given by a faculty member and smaller recitation sections that are taught by graduate teaching assistants. The lectures introduce the material and the recitations focus on applications and problem-solving. The lectures use many demonstrations to show physics principles in live action. Almost all the introductory lectures use personal response systems, where students use clickers to respond to the instructors’ questions. The homework assignments for the introductory courses are typically submitted online. We also offer purely online introductory courses during winter session.

The introductory lab courses explore basic topics such as forces, kinematics, friction, electrostatics and electric circuits. These experiments are designed to illustrate and expand upon topics taught in the introductory lecture courses.

It is necessary to apply for acceptance into any of the Physics programs. The acceptance criteria for students who have completed the relevant coursework at UB are given with the summaries for each degree program. Students who receive a 4 or 5 on the Physics C Mechanics AP exam, and the Physics C Electricity and Magnetism AP exam, can get credit for PHY 107 General Physics 1 and PHY 108/PHY 158 General Physics 2/General Physics 2 Lab, respectively. 

UB requires a minimum TOEFL score of 79 (Internet-based) or 550 (paper-based) in order to be considered for admission. Students scoring between 70 and 78 or 523 and 547 on the TOEFL may be admitted to the university on the condition that they register for and successfully complete additional English courses in their first semester.

Sekula Scholarship
Each year the department awards up to seven scholarships to undergraduate physics majors. This award is based on merit, as well as financial need.

National Scholarships
The Department of Physics encourages and supports student applications for prestigious national scholarships and fellowships, such as offered by the Goldwater, Fulbright and National Science Foundation programs. 

The University at Buffalo, The State University of New York offers a comprehensive Physics undergraduate program designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of physics, along with practical laboratory experience and opportunities for research. The program aims to prepare students for diverse career paths, including further graduate studies, research, engineering, and teaching. Students in the program can choose from various concentrations, such as applied physics, astrophysics, and general physics, allowing for specialized focus aligned with their interests and career goals.

The curriculum typically includes core courses in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and modern physics, supplemented by laboratory courses that develop experimental skills. Students also have the opportunity to engage in research projects under faculty supervision, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deeper understanding of physical phenomena. The program encourages collaboration and often includes interdisciplinary coursework in fields like materials science, computational physics, and environmental physics.

The university provides state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories equipped with advanced instrumentation, enabling students to conduct meaningful experimental research. Faculty members are actively engaged in cutting-edge research in areas such as condensed matter physics, particle physics, astrophysics, and biophysics, providing students with exposure to current scientific challenges and innovations. The program also offers options for internships and cooperative education to gain practical experience in industry or research institutions.

Graduates of the Physics program from the University at Buffalo are well-prepared for advanced studies, competitive employment in technical fields, or careers in education and scientific communication. The university's strong connections with research institutions and industry partners facilitate networking and placement opportunities. Overall, the program emphasizes a rigorous academic approach combined with hands-on learning, fostering the development of analytical and quantitative skills essential for success in scientific and technical careers.