Undergraduate Program

An undergraduate degree in physics will give you a deep understanding of the most fundamental forces in the Universe, and give you problem-solving skills that are valued in both academia and industry. A physics degree can lead to a career in scientific fields other than physics, such as astronomy, chemistry, biology, and mathematics. Physics graduates also pursue careers in fields such as law, financial services, medicine, education, and engineering.

The physics major at Cornell is designed to accommodate the needs of students with a wide spectrum of interests and career goals. The major consists of core courses spanning the field of physics, plus an area of concentration that can be chosen within physics or can be interdisciplinary.

Research is a strong component of the physics major. Research areas at Cornell include:
• accelerator physics
• astronomy
• biophysics
• computational physics
• condensed-matter physics
• elementary particle physics
• general relativity
• nanoscale physics
• quantum field theory

The Director of Undergraduate Studies, Professor Carl Franck, will hold office hours in 115 Clark Hall:

Wednesday, August 27 from 10:00 am to 1:00pm
Thursday, August 28 from 10:00am to 1:00pm
Friday, August 29 from 10:00am to 1:00pm

You may also contact him at (607) 255-5215, 254-8974 or 255-3562 (long ring for messages) or physicsdus@cornell.edu with questions.

Undergraduate Program

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