Physics
The American Institute of Physics describes physics as an “an organized way of conversing with nature.” Physics involves the determination of fundamental laws which allow us to describe how the universe works and predict natural behaviour. It also involves the application of this understanding for the benefit of humankind. This understanding forms the foundation for the study of the natural sciences (astronomy, biology, chemistry, and geology), the applied sciences, and engineering.
Albion College offers a curriculum that will prepare you to think critically about the way nature works, describe the world in mathematical and descriptive terms, conduct research, and disseminate the results.
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The Department offers programs for physics majors, pre-engineering students, students who require a physics cognate, and non-science students.
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Faculty members have backgrounds in atomic physics, nuclear physics, acoustics, and surface physics, as well as astronomy and planetary science.
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Students have opportunities to participate in faculty research projects including neutron activation analysis, environmental radiation monitoring, computational physics, telescope observing projects, and planetary science.
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Facilities include computer-aided laboratories, an X-ray diffraction system, a 14" Celestron telescope, and a historically significant Alvan Clark telescope.
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Opportunities are available for off-campus study during the school year, particularly participation in the Great Lakes Colleges Association's Oak Ridge Science Semester conducted at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee. The curriculum in physics can be adjusted to accommodate participation in other off-campus study programs as well.
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A prize established by Nobel Laureate E.T.S. Walton is given annually to the outstanding senior physics major.
