Department of Physics

Physics is the most fundamental of the natural sciences. It touches on important philosophical questions in its theories of relativity and quantum mechanics, and it uses mathematics, computers, and high technology instrumentation as tools for research. For students who complete a major in physics, the rewards are a deep understanding of nature, unusual flexibility in the choice of a career, and exceptional strength and stability in the job market.

Faculty and Staff

The Physics Department prioritizes close interactions between faculty and students. Class sizes are small and integrate an active-learning base curriculum.

Research

Students majoring in Physics at Creighton have unparalleled opportunities to participate in a wide variety of cutting-edge faculty-led research projects, starting as early as their freshman year. Areas of research range from hands-on experimental work to computational and theoretical projects. A machine shop with a dedicated machinist provides additional opportunities for students.

Undergraduate Programs

Creighton's physics programs are designed to combine a solid foundation in physics with adaptability to a wide range of student interests and career objectives. Our programs lay the foundation for careers in fields such as astronomy, astrophysics and space exploration, atomic physics, biophysics, computer science and technology, electronics and photonics, elementary particle physics, holography, laser physics, mathematical physics, medical physics, nuclear physics, optics, solid state physics, superconductivity - to name just a few.

There are graduates of Creighton's physics programs enjoying successful careers in all of the above fields, as well as medical doctors, dentists, lawyers and teachers who chose physics as their major at Creighton.

Our physics majors are prepared for entry-level positions in government or industry, or they can pursue graduate study in any of the many specialties of physics. Our majors are also accepted for graduate study in a variety of engineering fields, including electrical engineering. The acceptance rate for Creighton physics majors applying to graduate or professional schools is over 95%.

Graduate Programs

Creighton offers thesis-based Master’s degrees in both Physics and Medical Physics. Creighton undergraduates have the opportunity to pursue accelerated programs that allow them to complete both an undergraduate degree and a Master’s degree in 5 years.

Graduate Program

Mission

In accordance with Creighton’s Jesuit Catholic mission, we seek to support the holistic growth of our students. The department fosters a strong sense of community through an active chapter of the Society of Physics Students that organizes service and social events bringing physics students and faculty together. Annual departmental retreats integrate our study of physics with spiritual growth.