Physics Major

About our program

Between the innermost workings of the nucleus and the outer edge of the visible universe lies the playground of physics. As a physics major, you’ll combine imagination with systematic reasoning to understand the laws of nature, the structure of matter and the behavior of physical processes.

Here, you'll actively apply what you learn through hands-on research, collaborative projects and innovative problem-solving sessions that challenge the way you think. Plus, internships and service-learning projects will complement your studies, enhance your resume and give you real-world experience. Whether it’s working on groundbreaking research with faculty or participating in cutting-edge experiments, you’ll have the resources and support to explore your passions and prepare for a future where you can truly make a difference.

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 physics from Marquette?

The 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.   

 

Professional experience

As a physics major, you'll have lots of career options. Help decide the direction you'll take — and get valuable professional experience — with an internship. Internships can include working in a variety of professional settings in Milwaukee and nationwide. Our internship program is here to help you find the best option for you.

Discover more about Arts and Sciences internships.

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 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.