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From subatomic particles to galaxies, physicists and astronomers study an enormous range of phenomena, continually examining the laws of nature. In the past century, few areas of inquiry have advanced as rapidly as physics. Astronomy, too, is undergoing rapid development with the aid of orbiting observatories such as the James Webb Space Telescope.
The physics major can prepare you for: graduate study in physics or fields related to physics (such as biophysics or geophysics); secondary education; pre-engineering; professional school in medicine or law; or employment in physics-related positions in industry or government. OWU offers Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees in physics.
The 3-2 program offers a B.A. in physics from Ohio Wesleyan and a B.S. in engineering from one of OWU's partner engineering schools, which include the California Institute of Technology, Case Western Reserve University, Washington University in St. Louis, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, the New York University Polytechnic School of Engineering, and the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. Special admission requirements apply at some programs.
The astrophysics major prepares you for graduate study in astrophysics or in physics, or for careers in high-tech industries, teaching, and more. The major provides the strong background in physics and mathematics required for a deep understanding of astrophysical phenomena. OWU offers Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees in astrophysics.
PHYS 110 C, PHYS 110 L, PHYS 111 C, PHYS 111 L, PHYS 280 C, and two additional physics and/or astronomy courses numbered 275 or above.
ASTR 310, ASTR 311, and ASTR 345; PHYS 280 C and and one of the following: PHYS 310, 320, 360, or 380. A student may major in physics and also minor in astrophysics.
ASTR 110, ASTR 111, and ASTR 260; PHYS 110 C or PHYS 115; and one additional course numbered 250 or above in astronomy or physics to be determined in consultation with the Physics and Astronomy Department Chairperson. Students may not major in physics and minor in astronomy.
Professor Trees teaches introductory and upper-level physics courses. His specialty is theoretical condensed matter physics, and his research interests include the dynamics of Josephson junction arrays and the synchronization of coupled oscillators. He explains the latter as the study of how, when, and the potential benefits of getting signal-generating devices to work together.
Dr. Ding's research focuses on theoretical studies of spacetime symmetries, with primary interest in testing Lorentz and CPT symmetry in precision experiments, including theory of Lorentz- and CPT-violating quantum electrodynamics, particle and antiparticle comparisons in Penning traps, corrections to particle's spin precession in Electric Dipole Moment experiments, and Lorentz and CPT tests in atomic, molecular, and optical systems.
In addition to teaching courses in theoretical physics as well as in theoretical and observational astrophysics, Professor Harmon utilizes OWU's Perkins Observatory for classes and research, including the study of starspots. He mentors undergraduates conducting research during the summer, the results of which often are presented at regional and national conferences.
Rachael Roettenbacher '08 returned to OWU in 2014 to pass on wisdom to the next generation of astronomy students. Currently pursuing a doctorate in astronomy at the University of Michigan, her work has been partially funded by NASA's Harriett G. Jenkins Predoctoral Fellowship. "The opportunities available here, with the research opportunities and the support from the faculty, is just a huge asset to getting me to where I am. I still actively collaborate with Dr. Harmon, who was my science research adviser here."
This 150,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art science building features an array of sophisticated equipment for hands-on use by OWU students, including a scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform nuclear magnetic resonance and infrared spectrometers, and a research petrographic microscope.
A 32-inch-diameter reflecting telescope is housed inside the Perkins dome, where advanced astronomical study is done. Recently College Rank rated Perkins number 15 out of the 35 best college observatories, and was the highest ranked among small-college observatories.
This 10-week program gives students the opportunity to carry out cutting-edge research side by side with faculty mentors.
OWU provides more than $200,000 a year to fund student research and projects that put theory into practice around the world.