Physics

Physics is the most fundamental of all sciences. At WPI, we encourage the curiosity physicists have about how the world works by giving them the resources and the tools to further the study of the nature and properties of matter and energy. Physicists are problem solvers. They are always looking for new ways to approach questions and challenges and develop solutions based on our observations and experimentations.

We want students to follow their passions so a physics degree from WPI is apt to look different for each person. The program is structured so you can take the path that appeals to your natural curiosity. Through project work, students explore everything from developing more protective equipment for athletes to exploring nanoparticles. Students in our in our physics teacher preparation program work with faculty and in classrooms to improve physics education, teaching methods, and student learning.  Graduates go directly onto careers in industry, teaching high school physics (high in demand), or onto graduate school in physics or related fields.

WPI’s world-renowned faculty members inspire both undergraduate and graduate students to become engaged in research and teaching projects—which often leads to students making important contributions and writing articles for research journals before graduation, and helping them decide their career paths. Our faculty works collaboratively with students across disciplines, making discoveries in nuclear science, photonics and optics, new materials, biophysics, statistical and solid state physics, spectroscopy, and electromagnetism.