Physics & Astronomy

Introduction to the Department

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.

Department Features

• A flexible and exciting program with abundant research opportunities to prepare you for graduate study in physics, astronomy, engineering, medicine, and law—or a wide array of careers including in technology industries or teaching. 
• Options to earn Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degrees in physics or astrophysics.
• Recent OWU students have been accepted for graduate study at Princeton, Caltech, MIT, Cornell University, the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, Cambridge University, The Ohio State University, the University of Michigan, and others. See our senior student page to find out what our students next steps are after graduation.
• We offer 3-2 engineering opportunities, where students spend three years at OWU and two in an engineering program at schools such as Caltech, Washington University in St. Louis, and Case Western Reserve University, earning bachelor's degrees from both schools.