Join us in asking and exploring answers to the age-old question, “Why does it work?”
As a physics major or minor, you’ll find that you’re able to contribute to our research programs right from the beginning. Even before you enroll as a physics student, there are opportunities for you to start taking part in our research programs. Once you’re a student in our courses, we listen to what you want to learn, designing our elective options based on your interests.
Explore how the world works
Physics is an investigative science testing theory against experimental measurements.
Discover something new
Learning through experimenting and collaborative research is a hallmark of our department — and of 鶹Ƶ. It’s important for our students to learn directly alongside faculty members as research apprentices. Not only will you be learning something new, but you’ll be contributing directly to the field. View our for more information about our research groups.
Learn from the best
Each faculty member's research program is supported by external grants they've earned through competative programs. We currently have active awards totalling over $1 million. External funding has come from several nationally prestigious agencies and endowments, including:
For detailed information, view our faculty pages.
Hear from our Physics community
Recent blog posts
-
Public lecture: The Magic of Physics (Sep 10, 11 am, VWF 102)
Posted by Kyuil ChoThe 鶹Ƶ Physics Department will present a public lecture for the Hope community that dem...
-
Physics Graduates at Commencement
Posted by Kyuil ChoCongratulations to all the physics graduates: Nate Jobson, Gabe Balk, Jennifer Falkner, Will Vanc...
-
Physics End of Year Ceremony
Posted by Kyuil ChoThe Department of Physics held an end of year ceremony on April 30, 2024 to celebrate another suc...
-
Physics Seminar by Luke Pinkerton (Hope‘97), Thursday (4/18) at 11 am – VDW104
Posted by Kyuil Cho“Direct Tension Testing” by Luke Pinkerton ’97, CEO Helix Steel Bio: Luke Pinkerton ‘97, ...
-
Congratulations to Andrew Bunnell for 10 years of service at Hope Physics Department
Posted by Kyuil ChoThe post
-
Physics student presentations #3 (summer research in 2023), Thursday (4/4) at 11 am – VDW104
Posted by Kyuil Cho1. “Analyzing Promethium Isotopes To Understand The Origin Of Heavy Elements In The Univers...
We have a proven formula for success
This formula combines rigorous classroom work and true hands-on research. It combines caring, available instructors with experienced research mentors.
workP. 616.395.7510
physics@hope.eduHope by the Numbers
- 1.7 millionVolts
Our laboratory houses the 1.7 million volt Van de Graaf particle accelerator.
Learn more - 80%Graduate School
Our department sends students to graduate school in physics, materials science, medical physics and medicine. Those who don’t pursue further education often succeed in careers in national and industrial labs, business and secondary education.
- $1 millionRecent Grants
Our faculty has received over $1 million in recent grants toward their research.
Find research opportunities - $70kMedian Salary
The median salary for physicists with bachelor’s degrees is $70,000, and can increase by 41% for physicists with graduate degrees.
Imagine life after Hope