Photo of students and faculty in physics lab

Physics (B.S.)

Mysteries of the universe–examine the forces that give structure to galaxies, the particles that make up matter, and scientific theories that help us understand our world at µç³µÎÞÂë’s only tech-focused university.

Physics is the study of the natural world, seen and unseen, and seeks to answer questions about how matter and energy work everywhere from the tiniest observable particles to the most sprawling galaxies. As a physics major, you will:

  • Gain experience with experimental techniques, instrumentation, and measurement processes 
  • Develop mathematical, computational, and analytical skills
  • Collaborate on interdisciplinary scientific projects
  • Examine real-world problems with scientific rigor

And, learning doesn’t stop at the classroom. Participate in research opportunities offered through  faculty-led research projects on campus or at the nearby and National Labs. Connect with peers in the  or . Join campus clubs like  or Illinois Tech  and participate in national competitions. Dive in to hackathons and entrepreneurship challenges at the Kaplan Center to bring your theoretical knowledge to the market and forge your own career. 

Why Study Physics at a Technology-Focused University?

Studying physics at Illinois Tech uniquely prepares students to launch their careers. Physics majors are working alongside biologists, chemists, engineers, entrepreneurs, ethicists, educators, and policy experts every day, applying their insights in project-based collaborations. By investigating the natural world at µç³µÎÞÂë’s premier tech-focused university, our physics majors are preparing to take on pressing scientific challenges in settings ranging from research labs to startup companies to power plants. 

Program Overview

At Illinois Tech, we don’t just read about physics–we do it. Together, we solve problems and develop practical skills, tackling challenges like building electronic circuits, creating computer simulations, and contributing to research projects in energy, medicine, and more.

Career Opportunities

Upon graduation, you’ll have the problem solving, analytical, and practical skills to launch an exciting career or to continue to graduate study–whether that’s in physics, business, or even law school. Recent graduates work at companies and organizations like Microlink Devices, Constellation Energy, Tesla, Unabridged Software, the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams and the U.S. Senate Space and Science Subcommittee.  

Some common jobs that graduates pursue include:

  • Risk Analytic Consultant/Actuary
  • Operations Accelerator Engineer
  • Engineering Process Technician
  • Junior Process Engineer
  • STEM teacher
  • Software developer
  • Data analyst
  • Financial technology (fintech) specialist

Want to take your education even further? Our students are primed for postgraduate study. Graduates have gone on to further study in physics at schools like Stanford, Notre Dame, the University of Pennsylvania, and right here at Illinois Tech. Consider an accelerated master’s, completing both B.S. and M.S. in just five years. Or, consider our Honors Law Program, which combines study at Illinois Tech with the J.D. program at the µç³µÎÞÂë-Kent College of Law, allowing students to graduate earlier and launch their careers. Physics majors are especially well suited to careers in patent law.

Disclaimer for prospective students, please read.
The information provided is sourced from a third party, Lightcast, and is provided here for informational and educational purposes only. Please be advised that the inclusion of the Lightcast resource on this website does not imply endorsement by Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech), nor is it a guarantee of the accuracy of this information. Illinois Tech makes no representation, warranty or guarantee, express or implied, that the information presented herein is reflective of the outcomes you can expect if you enroll in or graduate from an Illinois Tech program. Illinois Tech expressly disclaims any liability regarding Lightcast, or in connection with any actual or potential employment opportunity stemming from information on this site and you hereby irrevocably waive any claim(s) against the Illinois Tech for the same. Your use of this web page is an acknowledgement of your understanding and acceptance of the terms and conditions set forth herein. You are encouraged to conduct your own thorough research into job opportunities and outcomes in your field of study.

Our physics curriculum combines rigorous disciplinary knowledge with broad exposure to technical and scientific fields. All students participate in the physics colloquium, where they have the opportunity to meet and learn from scientists working in the field. If you have curriculum questions, feel free to contact Dr. Todd Springer: tspringer@iit.edu. We’d love to hear from you.

Admission to Illinois Tech is required to enroll in the B.S. in physics program. Consult your academic adviser to transfer into the program.

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Unraveling the biggest mysteries that the universe has to offer has been a lifelong passion for Claire Zwicker (PHYS, ASTR ’23).

Illinois Tech alumni Lexi Detweiler

Lexi Detweiler (PHYS, ASPY, M.S. HP ’21) ensures there are adequate protections in place to house and process uranium at Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

Featured Faculty

Pavel Snopok
Chair, Department of Physics Professor
Associate Professor
Rakshya Khatiwada
Assistant Professor of Physics Associate Scientist, Fermilab
Carlo Segre
Duchossois Leadership Professor Professor of Physics Deputy Director, Materials Research Collaborative Access Team (MRCAT) Director, Center for Synchrotron Radiation Research and Instrumentation (CSRRI) Deputy Director, BioCAT Professor of Materials Science and Engineering
Emily Leiner
Assistant Professor of Physics
John Zasadzinski
Paul and Suzi Schutt Endowed Chair in Science Professor of Physics