Applied Physics at Kettering University

What is Applied Physics?

Physics is the most fundamental science and underlies the understanding of nearly all areas of science and technology. Physics is concerned with the study of energy, space, matter, the interaction between material objects and the laws which govern these interactions. Physicists study mechanics, heat, sound, light, electric and magnetic fields, gravitation, relativity, atomic and nuclear physics, and solid state physics.

Applied Physics is not a branch of physics but is the application of all the branches of physics to the broad realm of practical problems in engineering, science, and industry. Applied physics is the interface between science and technology, between the pure and the applied, between the laboratory and practice.

How does Applied Physics Impact Society?

Take a look at some Physics Success Stories as reported by the American Institute of Physics.

What do Applied Physics majors do?

An Applied Physics major cannot do..... .....So why major in Applied Physics? Who would hire you?

An Applied Physics major can do 70-80% as well as each of these other majors on all of these tasks, whereas each of these other major's abilities quickly go to zero once outside their disciplines. A student with a degree in Applied Physics (otherwise known as Engineering Physics or Technical Physics) can find jobs in all areas of engineering (mechanical, electrical, industrial, civil, acoustical, medical) fields as well as many areas of business. In fact, because of the broad background in fundamental physics and engineering coupled with a concentration in one or more specific areas important to industry, a person with an applied physics degree often makes a better engineer than a person with an engineering degree. The ability to tackle and solve problems they have never seen before sets an applied physicist apart from an engineer who is trained only to solve certain types of problems. Many of the "cool" things we rely on for everyday life were first developed by applied physicists.

So, what kind of cool things do applied physicis people do? Here's just a few ideas . . .

B.S. in Applied Physics from Kettering University

The degree in Applied Physics provides excellent preparation for work in industry or in government agencies. The program also serves as a solid foundation for students desiring to go on to graduate school in physics or an of a number of fields in pure or applied science or engineering. The curriculum in Applied Physics provides a solid basic education in physics with a strong background in engineering science and design.

At least equally important is the co-op portion of the program which provides students with self-management in a business environment and first-hand knowledge of how physics is applied outside of the classroom. Kettering University graduates agree that their co-op experience was an integral part of their education and better prepared them for their careers in their chosen fields.

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