Curriculum
The introductory physics curriculum at St. Olaf features a three-course sequence especially designed for physics majors. Unlike introductory courses at many colleges where just one beginning course is taught, incoming students at St. Olaf who are intending to go on in physics join a small class of their peers with similar interests in physics and other physical sciences. This enables us to focus the curriculum and the depth of coverage in ways not otherwise possible. For example, elements of special relativity are incorporated as we cover Newtonian mechanics. Students also learn how to construct numerical (computer) solutions to some problems that are otherwise too difficult to solve analytically. Problems involving friction and more than two objects interacting under gravity are examples. Most physics majors take a physics course each semester alongside a course in mathematics, at least through differential equations. Thus, many physics majors at St. Olaf become double-majors in mathematics, a strong combination that serves them well.
How to start the Physics major
Summer Research Opportunities
Research with faculty is an important part of undergraduate physics education, and at St. Olaf we have a robust summer program that includes financial support and housing for a ten-week period. This past year, 12 physics majors joined 55 students from the other St. Olaf science departments in the summer REU (Research Experiences for Undergraduates) program. In addition to the time spent conducting research in the lab or on field projects, our summer research experience includes a science communication series, social activities, and poster and presentation sessions given by the participants.
After St. Olaf
Physics majors go on to a wide variety of activities after St. Olaf. Most enter graduate programs to earn Masters or Ph.D. degrees in fields such as engineering, computer science, mathematics, geophysics, atmospheric science, medicine, or law, as well as in physics. Some go to private industry in physics-related positions. A background in physics turns out to be excellent preparation for a wide variety of fields. Our physics graduating classes average about 15 but vary from 11 to the low 20’s. Thus, we are among the leading four-year colleges in producing physics majors and also those going on to earn Ph.D.’s. For more information on possible career paths and subsequent coursework, click here.
Science Education
Are you considering a career in education? Want to learn more about combining your love for science with teaching. Click here to read about Science Education at St. Olaf and click here to read FAQs about becoming a physics teacher.
Career Resources for Physics Students
This page includes resources from St. Olaf College’s Piper Center (career center), American Institute of Physics (AIP), American Physical Society (APS), and info for women in STEM.
Student Activities
Early on in their studies, physics majors form close friendships with their classmates through problem-solving groups and laboratory work. Graduating seniors often tell us that this camaraderie is one of the most distinguishing and important things about being a physics major. Formal group activities are supported through the Society of Physics Students (SPS) which sponsors trebuchet and other building ‘competitions.’
Department Colloquium Series
The Physics department hosts a weekly colloquium series that brings to St. Olaf a variety of speakers who tell us about physics applications in the “real world.’ Presenters are sometimes faculty colleagues or distinguished alumni, and sometimes from professional organizations, graduate schools recruiting physics majors, and from nearby industries. Often, these talks become the inspiration for summer positions, graduate school choices, or the seed of an idea for careers.
Upcoming and recent colloquium talks and speakers
Questions about the department should be directed to Brian Borovsky, chair.