Undergraduate Programs
The laws of physics govern the universe from the formation of stars and galaxies, to the processes in the Earth’s atmosphere that determine our climate, to the elementary particles and their interactions that hold together atomic nuclei. Physics also drives many rapidly-advancing technologies, such as information technology, telecommunication, nanoelectronics, and medical technology, including MRI imaging and laser surgery.
The physics program at Stevens combines classroom instruction with hands-on research experience in one of several state-of-the-art research laboratories (Laboratory for Quantum Enhanced Systems and Technology, Photonics Science and Technology, Optical Communication and Nanodevices, Quantum Electron Science and Technology, NanoPhotonics, Light and Life, or Ultrafast Spectroscopy and Communication). Perhaps the most differentiating feature of the Stevens physics curriculum is SKIL (Science Knowledge Integration Ladder), a six-semester sequence of project-centered courses. This course sequence lets students work on projects that foster independent learning, innovative problem solving, collaboration and team work, and knowledge integration under the guidance of a faculty advisor. The SKIL sequence starts in the sophomore year with projects that integrate basic scientific knowledge and simple concepts. In the junior and senior years, the projects become more challenging and the level of independence increases.