Why Study Physics at UT?
UT’s undergraduate physics program lets students follow their own curiosity with multiple paths to a degree. Our majors have opportunities to study quantum materials and cell division; rare isotopes and dark matter. They look for new particles and new physics. They code; they build; they calculate. Our students work on campus at top-notch facilities like our Center for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing and at national and international laboratories, including Oak Ridge National Laboratory right up the road, Fermilab in Chicago, the Large Hadron Collider in Geneva, and RIKEN in Japan. They gain hands-on experience (for credit and pay) and co-author scientific publications. Most importantly, they learn the problem-solving skills they need to adapt to changes in science and technology and how to translate those skills into broad opportunities, not just for a first job, but for a career.
All this happens in a vibrant department with small classes and an active cohort of undergraduates enthusiastically engaged in academic, social, and outreach activity.
Why Choose Physics?
Our graduates can answer that question best.
Forrest McCann, Class of 2017
Senior Engineer, Product Technology, Northvolt (Sweden)
“I chose to major in physics because I was highly interested in better understanding the laws of nature. I also had interest in chemistry and engineering, and at the time wasn’t sure which direction I wanted my future career to go. However, I remember a presentation in my Modern Physics course detailing all the various career paths one can go with a degree in physics.
After graduating I found myself with an opportunity at a company that was interested in batteries and looking for someone to start up their battery lab. I had actually applied for a different position, yet after an interview with the CEO, he wanted me to start up the battery work as a battery engineer. He told me though I lacked any experience in the battery field, he saw my experience in analytical chemistry from a previous job and internship work, but was most impressed with my bachelor’s in physics. He told me that he sees someone who chooses this degree has perseverance, is a problem solver, and (is) willing to teach themselves new things to obtain a solution. His trust in me and my physics degree led me to diving deep into the materials science of batteries until we were creating high-quality anode material. Later I found myself working on high-level lithium ion battery projects in Maryland. I now live in Sweden and work on the research and development of the most environmentally friendly high energy density batteries.
Looking back to when I first chose physics for my bachelor’s degree, I could have never imagined the places it would take me nor where I am today. Even still I find that the opportunities and places around the world I can take my career with my degree in physics incredible, and am happy to have put in the hard work to complete the degree.”
Think physics might be the right major for you? Please reach out to our program director or assistant director if you have questions!
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