Transform Ideas Into Innovation as a Physics Major at UNC Asheville
When you enroll in the Physics degree program, you embark on a journey beyond textbooks and equations and explore the fundamental principles that govern our universe. You benefit from expert faculty mentorship as you delve into our rigorous, customizable curriculum. At UNC Asheville, you engage in groundbreaking projects, collaborate with peers, and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge.
Customizable Curriculum
Our physics majors enjoy a curriculum tailored to their passions and goals. We actively encourage students to explore their interests by selecting electives and minors that add context to physics and complement the robust liberal arts education for which UNC Asheville is known. Students gain a solid knowledge base in mathematics, chemistry, computer science, astronomy, and fundamental engineering as they test theories, conduct experiments, and solve problems—skills that translate well into other disciplines and apply to various career fields.
Comprehensive Science Licensure Concentration
Career Paths
A degree in physics from UNC Asheville opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities. Physics graduates are valued for their problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and technical expertise, making them well-suited for roles in research and development, engineering, data science, technology, and education. Many pursue advanced degrees in physics or related fields, while others apply their skills in industries such as aerospace, renewable energy, healthcare technology, and finance. Whatever path they choose, physics majors graduate prepared to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation.
Expansive Research Potential
The physics bachelor’s degree program offers many undergraduate research and collaboration opportunities alongside faculty mentors. Students can contribute to the evolution of scientific knowledge in collaboration with faculty, who bring a wide range of research interests, including molecular, atomic, nuclear, and environmental physics, astronomy, and astrophysics. Students can also participate in the Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Program, a self-directed research venture that can lead to publication or presentation on or off campus.
Tailored to Your Passions:
In the physics major at UNC Asheville, you study the laws that make the world go around, including time, space, force, matter, motion, and energy.
I have known that I wanted to work in space exploration for a long time, so I hope to one day either be a driving force in space exploration or to even be in space.
Physics Concentrations
Physics Concentrations
Choose Your Path to Success
UNC Asheville offers multiple pathways for students to earn a physics degree through specialized concentrations. Students can choose from the Preparation for Graduate School Concentration, the Applied Physics Concentration, the Physics with Teacher Licensure Concentration, or the Physics with Comprehensive Science Licensure Concentration—each designed to provide a strong foundation in physics while supporting diverse academic interests and career goals.
Ideas Into Innovation
While sufficiently prepared to enter the workforce upon graduation, many UNC Asheville students seek graduate education at the master’s or doctoral level. Our graduates have achieved offers of acceptance to renowned institutions across the nation, including the University of Central Florida, MIT, The University of Arizona, Johns Hopkins, The University of Utah, the University of South Carolina, and more.
Cosmic Connections
Ava Tomkins, Phoebe Gittis, and Josh Ward completed undergraduate research at Yerkes Observatory, the birthplace of modern cosmology and home to the largest refracting telescope in the world.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Top-Notch Facilities
The Physics and Astronomy Department at UNC Asheville offers dedicated spaces for experimentation, observation, and research. Physics labs provide an environment for exploring core principles through experiments in areas such as mechanics, electromagnetism, and modern physics, allowing students to apply classroom concepts in hands-on settings. Students work closely with faculty, develop technical skills, and prepare for future careers or graduate study.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Sigma Pi Sigma
Sigma Pi Sigma (ΣΠΣ) is the American honor society for physics and astronomy. SPS regularly holds induction ceremonies to honor students who meet the level of achievement required to join the society. Our UNC Asheville SPS Chapter has won an annual SPS award for several years. Typically, the National SPS Office awards only 20 to 30 chapters out of the over 700 nationwide annually.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Society of Physics Students
Affiliated with the National Society of Physics Students Council, the UNC Asheville Society of Physics Students focuses on advancing and growing majors in physics, astronomy, and other STEAM-based degrees.
In this group, we keep members involved in community-based activities with local schools and here on campus. We teach introductory physics to students in the local area, actively participate in the NC Science Festival, and host various fun activities throughout the year. Additionally, we keep our members up-to-date on the latest exclusive scholarships and internships offered through SPS National and STEM-based programs in North Carolina.
We meet on the first Tuesday of each month from 12-1 p.m. in RRO119—we encourage any student interested in STEAM to join!
Meet the Faculty & Staff
Meet the Faculty & Staff
Discover the depth and rigor of our Bachelor of Science in Physics degree program. Our faculty bring a wealth of expertise and a commitment to guiding students throughout their academic journey. With one-on-one mentorship, our full-time faculty help create a supportive, engaging learning environment where physics majors can excel.
Related Programs
Ready for What’s Next?
When you enroll in the Bachelor of Science in Physics degree program, you embark on a journey beyond textbooks and equations and explore the fundamental principles that govern our universe. You benefit from expert faculty mentorship as you delve into our rigorous, customizable curriculum. At UNC Asheville, you engage in groundbreaking projects, collaborate with peers, and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge.