Applied Physics Major

About our program

Learn how to apply physics concepts to solve real-world problems in this joint program from the Physics Department and the Opus College of Engineering. You’ll study core physics foundations along with practical and engineering techniques and applications, so you can put your knowledge to use in industries from health care to technology and beyond. 

You’ll have plenty of hands-on opportunities here. Work alongside faculty on projects ranging from sustainable energy solutions to innovative medical technologies. Complete internships with leading companies that will give you a glimpse into your future career and build your resume while you earn your degree. 

And because everything we do at Marquette is through the lens of service to others, you will graduate as a values-based, ethical leader, ready to innovate and create solutions that improve lives. 

Marquette Hall, view from Wisconsin Avenue.

Marquette Hall, College of Arts and Sciences

Benefits you’ll get from Marquette’s College of Arts and Sciences

The ability to make significant positive change in the world requires knowing more than one area well. And since our College of Arts and Sciences is the most academically diverse college on campus, we're the perfect place to prepare for your role as a changemaker. So broaden your expertise by adding at least one additional major or minor to your degree — 73% of our students do. 

What can you do with a major in applied physics from Marquette?

The applied physics major is excellent preparation for graduate, medical, dental and law schools; industrial or government research and development; and teaching. Here’s where some of our graduates have landed.  

  • Ford Motor Co. 
  • Kimberly-Clark Corp. 
  • Los Alamos National Laboratory 
  • Motorola 
  • NASA Jet Propulsion Lab 
  • National Institute of Standards and Technology 
  • Nuclear Regulatory Commission 
  • Procter and Gamble 
  • Rockwell Automation 
  • Scripps Institute of Oceanography 
  • Trace Analytical Laboratories 
  • U.S. Defense Department 

collage of a building and faculty member talking to students

Hands-on learning for career success

While you’re here at Marquette, preparing you for what’s next will be one of our top priorities. So, expect lots of learning by doing, connecting with others who share your passions, and reflecting on how you can Be The Difference.   

 

Spaces to learn

Designed entirely around the needs of the student, Engineering Hall is designated as one of the most innovative places on campus. Each of its five floors is dedicated to solving complex problems and answering questions that we are faced with today and tomorrow. And with over 30 labs, you’ll have plenty of inviting spaces waiting for your exploration, creativity and innovation here and within the physics labs of Arts and Sciences.  

Professional experience

As an applied physics major, you'll complete an internship and get employment experience while you are still in school. The Klingler College of Arts and Sciences in collaboration with the Opus College of Engineering work with over 200 leading industry partners to provide you with a head start on your career through real-world work. Here are just a few of our partners: 

  • Milwaukee Tool 
  • Harley-Davidson 
  • Kohler 
  • GE Healthcare
  • Omron 
  • Findorff 
  • Arco 
  • Husco 

Explore our co-op and internship experiences. 

Undergraduate research

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to follow your interests here, like volunteering with a faculty member whose research area intrigues you or completing your own independent study. 

Here are some of the topics physics faculty and students are exploring now: 

  • Understanding cosmic rays 
  • Studying the effects of cancer, metabolic diseases and therapies on the energy-producing mitochondrial respiratory chain 
  • Developing imaging systems and computational tools to study cancer formation 
  • Modeling populations of interacting binary stars  
  • Observing the radio emissions from collapsing stars 

Learn more about physics research at Marquette. 

Leadership learning

Become a people-centered leader guided by our Jesuit tradition. Join our E-Lead program sophomore year and you’ll complete a combination of leadership courses and experiences that prepare you to be the drivers of innovation for the common good. You’ll develop the skill set to generate innovative solutions and the mindset to reflect on the impact your work has on the world. Bonus: You’ll graduate with a concentration in leadership, too. 

Explore our E-Lead program. 

Study abroad

Expand your education with a semester abroad. Study program course work at prestigious universities around the world. Other international opportunities are available for applied physics students through core courses, summer study, language study, faculty-led programs or research. 

Check out study abroad programs.

 

What to expect from a Marquette degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally through overall student support, career preparation and an extended family that can't wait to meet you. But don't just take our word for it. 

#6

#6 Best College in Job Placement /#1 in Wisconsin

Zippia.com

#55

#55 in Student Outcomes

Wall Street Journal

#12

#12 Best Colleges for Internships

The Princeton Review (private universities)

Aerial of campus
 

Take the next step.