Undergraduate Programs
The University of Maine offers undergraduate degrees in physics (B.A. and B.S.) and engineering physics (B.S.), as well as graduate degrees in physics (M.S., Ph.D) and engineering physics (M.E.).
Our faculty cover a wide variety of research areas, both within physics and across disciplines. Multidisciplinary research projects have involved chemistry, engineering, earth sciences, mathematics, and others.
The course work can be demanding, but the department has ways to help and provide support. The laboratory work requires application of new concepts, but you’ll learn collaboratively with your classmates. You will need to work, but you will be rewarded for your efforts – today and tomorrow.
Degree programs are offered leading to the following:
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics
- Bachelor of Science in Physics
- Bachelor of Arts in Physics
- Minor in Physics or Astronomy
We offer an uncommon educational experience.
- Our classes are small, beyond the introductory level.
- Homework is graded and returned promptly.
- Faculty members are actively involved in research and development.
Undergraduates can participate in many research areas, such as:
- Astrophysics
- Biophysics
- Imaging science
- Nanotechnology / Nanomagnetism / Sensor science and engineering
- Physics education
Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics
Engineering Physics is a curriculum in applied science, including a carefully chosen sequence of engineering electives, which we call a “concentration,” in one of the traditional engineering fields. The science and mathematics of engineering are emphasized.
The Engineering Physics program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org, under the commission’s General Criteria and Program Criteria for Engineering, General Engineering, Engineering Physics, and Engineering Science.
Our Engineering Physics program is the first ever, established in 1938, tied for the first accredited engineering physics program (with the University of Kansas) in 1949, and the only accredited engineering physics program in New England.
The Educational Objectives of the University of Maine Engineering Physics Program are to have our graduates:
A. use the versatility afforded by the engineering physics degree to collaborate with a dynamic, diverse, and technically sophisticated workforce by successfully employing engineering/scientific skills, developed at UMaine, in a wide range of fields;
B. continuously improve and expand their technical and professional skills through informal self-study, coursework, pursuit of licensure, or the attainment of advanced degrees in science, engineering, business, or other professional fields;
C. advance the profession and themselves through ethical behavior, communication, teamwork, and leadership;
D. recognize the importance of civic engagement and support the significant roles that engineering and science play in the betterment of society.
In support of these objectives, preparation also includes an introduction to the humanities, social sciences, communications and raising sensitivity to issues of ethics and professional practice.
Furthermore, the program encourages majors to participate in student professional organizations, including the Society of Physics Students, the Society of Women Engineers and the various student societies within the student’s chosen engineering field. In addition, majors frequently qualify for membership in the honor societies Sigma Pi Sigma and Tau Beta Pi, among others.
The EPS Learning Outcomes are based on the ABET-developed learning goals for all engineering students.
The Student Outcomes of the University of Maine Engineering Physics Program are that, by the end of their undergraduate program in engineering physics, students will have:
- an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
- an ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors.
- an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
- an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts.
- an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
- an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
- an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.
The UMaine Office of Institutional Research annually compiles statistical data for all programs across campus. Enrollment and graduation data for all MCEC programs can be found at:
- Maine College of Engineering and Computing Enrollment by Program
- Maine College of Engineering and Computing Degrees Conferred by Program
| Major Requirements | |
|---|---|
| # Credits Required | Courses |
| 53 | Physics (including PHY 100) |
| 24 | Engineering Sequence and Technical Elective |
| 25-26 | Mathematics, Chemistry, and Computer Science |
| 21 | English, Human Values / Social Context and Ethics courses |
| 1-2 | Free Elective |
| 125 | Credits required for graduation |
For additional information, download the Curriculum Guide:
- Fall 2024 BS in Engineering Physics Curriculum Guide
- Fall 2023 BS in Engineering Physics Curriculum Guide
- Fall 2020 BS in Engineering Physics Curriculum Guide (PDF)
- Fall 2019 BS in Engineering Physics Curriculum Guide (PDF)
Bachelor of Science in Physics
The Bachelor of Science in Physics is customarily the prerequisite for graduate education in physics, astronomy, or related areas.
Student Learning Outcomes of the B.S. degree in Physics
Students graduating with a B.S. degree in Physics should have achieved the following goals, which will prepare students for entry and success in graduate programs and/or direct entry into the workforce as scientific/technical professionals:
- An ability to apply physics and mathematics to identify, formulate, and solve physics problems;
- An ability to design and conduct experiments and to analyze and interpret data;
- An ability to use techniques, skills, and instrumentation necessary for modern physics practice including computer techniques (simulations, mathematics, data acquisition and analysis);
- An ability to communicate effectively in oral and written presentations;
- An ability to read and understand the physics literature.
This prepares the student for careers in basic or applied research and development. Because of its strong emphasis on science and mathematics, it is particularly appropriate for careers in research at industrial, governmental, or academic institutions.
| Major Requirements | |
|---|---|
| # Credits Required | Courses |
| 56 | Physics (with PHY 100) |
| 26 | Sciences (8) and Mathematics (18) |
| 21 | English (3), Human Values / Social Context and Ethics (18) |
| 17 | Electives |
| 120 | Minimum credits for graduation |
For additional information, download an updated Curriculum Guide:
Bachelor of Arts in Physics
This program can be tailored to a wide variety of careers, including medicine and dentistry. Students may pursue broad science areas, such as: astronomy, astrophysics, biophysics, environmental studies, geophysics, or physical oceanography. The program also provides a strong science background for students pursuing management, law, or secondary school science teaching careers.
Student Learning Outcomes for the B.A. Degree in Physics
Students graduating with a B.A. degree in Physics should have achieved the following goals, which will prepare students for entry and success in graduate programs and/or direct entry into the workforce as scientific/technical professionals:
- An ability to apply physics and mathematics to identify, formulate, and solve physics problems;
- An ability to design and conduct experiments and to analyze and interpret data;
- An ability to use techniques, skills, and instrumentation necessary for modern physics practice including computer techniques (simulations, mathematics, data acquisition and analysis);
- An ability to communicate effectively in oral and written presentations;
- A broad educational background that provides the basis for contributing as a global citizen.
| Major Requirements | |
|---|---|
| # Credits Required | Courses |
| 38 | Physics (without PHY 100) |
| 25 | Sciences & Mathematics |
| 57 | Electives (must also include those necessary to satisfy the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences B.A. requirements, which includes a second B.A. or a minor) |
| 120 | Minimum credits for graduation A minimum of 72 hours must be outside the major |
For additional information, download an updated Curriculum Guide:
Minors in Physics or Astronomy
The Minor in Physics and the Minor in Astronomy are both flexible programs intended for students enrolled in any four-year degree program at the University of Maine. The programs provide a stronger science and mathematics background. Students choose either physics or astronomy as areas of study.
Minor in Physics — requires 21 credits in Physics (12 specified and 9 elective).
| Mandatory Courses | |
|---|---|
| Courses | Choices |
| Physics | PHY 121*, PHY 122*, PHY 223, PHY 236 |
| Choose 9 credits or more from the following | PHY 231, PHY 451, PHY 447, PHY 454, PHY 455, PHY 463, PHY 469, PHY 470, PHY 472, PHY 480; Laboratory courses – up to 3 credits maximum: PHY 224, PHY 261, PHY 262, PHY 364, PHY 365, PHY 471 |
| *may be substituted with PHY 111 & PHY 112 if previously taken | |
Look up these courses by their designators under Courses Offered.
Minor Advisor: Frank Dudish.
Minor in Astronomy — requires 12 credits in Physics and 9 credits in Astronomy.
| Mandatory Courses | |
|---|---|
| Physics | AST 109, AST 110, PHY 121*, PHY 122*, PHY 223 |
| choose 8 credits or more from Electives | PHY 236, AST 221, AST 227, AST 451, AST 497 |
| * may be substituted with PHY 111, PHY 112 | |
View Courses Offered by their designator.
Minor Advisor: David Batuski.
The courses you will study in our department will furnish you with a sound foundation in basic and applied physics and astronomy. We will challenge you. And, if you are willing to work, we will help you to succeed. The following are the physics and astronomy courses offered at UMaine.
If you are interested in the courses of other departments on the UMaine campus, check the UMaine Course Catalog for PHY courses, the UMaine Course Catalog for AST courses.
Graduate level courses are also available for advanced undergraduates.
- AST 109 Introduction to Astronomy
- AST 110 Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory
- AST 114 Navigation
- AST 221 Planetary Systems
- AST 227 Stars and Galaxies
- AST 451 Astrophysics I
- AST 497 Topics in Astrophysics
- AST 598 Special Topics in Theor. or Exp. Astrophysics
- PHY 100 Introduction to Physics and Astronomy
- PHY 101 Physics by Inquiry I
- PHY 102 Physics by Inquiry II
- PHY 105 Descriptive Physics
- PHY 107 Technical Physics I
- PHY 108 Technical Physics II
- PHY 111 General Physics I
- PHY 112 General Physics II
- PHY 121 Physics for Eng. & Physical Scientists I
- PHY 122 Physics for Eng. & Physical Scientists II
- PHY 200 Career Preparation in Physics and Engineering Physics I
- PHY 223 Special Relativity
- PHY 224 Special Relativity Laboratory
- PHY 231 Mathematical Methods in Physics
- PHY 236 Introductory Quantum Physics
- PHY 241 Computational Physics
- PHY 261 Physical Measurements Laboratory
- PHY 262 Electronics
- PHY 364 Modern Experimental Physics
- PHY 365 Mechanics Laboratory
- PHY 400 Career Preparation in Physics and Engineering Physics II
- PHY 447 Molecular Biophysics
- PHY 451 Mechanics
- PHY 454 Electricity and Magnetism I
- PHY 455 Electricity and Magnetism II
- PHY 462 Physical Thermodynamics
- PHY 463 Statistical Mechanics
- PHY 469 Quantum and Atomic Physics
- PHY 470 Nuclear Physics
- PHY 471 Nuclear Physics Laboratory
- PHY 472 Geometrical and Fourier Optics
- PHY 473 Modern Optics Laboratory
- PHY 480 Physics of Materials
- PHY 481 Project Laboratory in Physics I
- PHY 482 Project Laboratory in Physics II
- PHY 495 Engineering Physics Practice
- PHY 496 Field Experience in Physics
- PHY 497 Problems in Physics
Check the UMaine Course Catalog for PHY courses prerequisites and the UMaine Course Catalog for AST courses prerequisites
This online resource lists all of the University of Maine courses by Department. There is also a search function available. The available information includes:
- All UMaine courses listed by department
- Course designator and title (e.g. PHY 469 Quantum and Atomic Physics)
- Brief course descriptions
- Prerequisite courses (e.g. completed PHY 236, or instructor’s permission)
- Credit hours of study (e.g. Cr 3 is equal to 3 hours of in-class time per week).
You will find a small selection of forms needed for many things here. There are many more forms available on the Office of Student Records website.
Scholarships are offered privately, through the University, and from the Department of Physics and Astronomy, too! Contact the resources below to receive information about these and more financial support options.
Department of Physics and Astronomy
5709 Bennett Hall
Orono, ME 04469-5709
Office of Student Financial Aid
5781 Wingate Hall
Orono, ME 04469-5781
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some good reasons to study Physics, Engineering Physics, or Astronomy at the University of Maine?
- I’m in high school and interested in attending the University of Maine. How do I begin?
- Is there a special process if I’ve had some college classes?
- What opportunities are available to me in the Department of Physics and Astronomy?
- Are there other resources available to me?
- What should I choose to be my major?
- What type of degree should I work towards?
- How can I pay for my schooling?
What are some good reasons to study Physics, Engineering Physics, or Astronomy at the University of Maine?
- We have the only ABET accredited engineering physics program in New England.
- We offer B.A. and B.S. degrees in physics, and flexible programs to match individual interests and goals.
- An undergraduate degree in physics or engineering physics from the University of Maine provides strong preparation for a variety of careers. Some examples are:
- Jodie McErlain Blouin EPS ’01 is the Radiological Controls Director at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard;
- Lori Cole EPS ’97 became an audio engineer at Walt Disney World;
- Scott Zoldi EPS ’94 is the Chief Analytics Officer at FICO; he earned a Ph.D. in Physics at Duke University;
- Scott Burgess BA ’86 is the physics teacher at John Bapst Memorial High School, Bangor, Maine;
- Noah Nesin BA ’79 is the Chief Medical Officer of Penobscot Community Health Care;
- Duncan Moore BS ’69 became the Associate Director for Technology in the Office of Science and Technology Policy, Executive Office of the President, and is a Professor of Optics, Biomedical Engineering, and Business Administration at the University of Rochester;
- Chuck Peddle, EPS ’59 designed the MOS technology 6502 microprocessor, revolutionizing personal computing;
- Colby Chandler EPS ’49 became the CEO of Eastman Kodak.
- We offer placement in industrial or government co-op positions and opportunities for student exchange/study abroad.
- We offer over twenty undergraduate courses in physics and astronomy each semester. Courses in many areas are offered regularly, including physics of materials, biophysics, optics, and astrophysics.
- We have a year-long senior project course that provides an opportunity to do research with faculty.
- We have the only Ph.D. program in physics in Maine, and some undergraduates take advantage of graduate course and seminar offerings.
- We have an active Society of Physics Students, which offers help sessions for first-year students, and a chapter of Sigma Pi Sigma, the national honor society for physics.
I’m in high school and interested in attending the University of Maine. How do I begin?
Submit the following required documentation to the Admissions Office:
- A completed application for undergraduate admission with appropriate application fee;
- An official high school transcript (sent by the high school at your request);
- Official SAT or ACT scores (sent by the testing agency) — first year students only; and
- A recommendation from your guidance counselor — students currently in high school only.
Is there a special process if I’ve had some college classes?
Submit these documents to the Admissions Office:
- A completed application for undergraduate admission with appropriate application fee;
- An official high school transcript (sent by the high school at your request);
- An official college transcript (sent by the institution at your request); and
- A recommendation from academic advisor or an instructor (encouraged, but optional).
What opportunities are available to me in the Department of Physics and Astronomy?
Look at our Student Opportunities section. You will find much information about professional organizations, research opportunities, internships, studying abroad, and potential careers!
Online Undergraduate Application
Are there other resources available to me?
- Personal interviews are encouraged, but not required. Interviews last about one half hour, and can be scheduled through the Admissions Office.
- Student-guided tours can be arranged through the Visitor’s Center in Chadbourne Hall. This is a good way to see the University and ask specific questions. To schedule a tour, call the Center at 207-581-3740 or the Admissions Office at 1-877-486-2364 (which is toll-free) or (207) 581-1561. When leaving a message, please give your name, address, telephone number, number of people in your party, and the date and time you would like to visit us.
- Open House programs are offered each semester, sometimes on multiple dates. The programs offer the chance to listen to university faculty and administrators, as well as preview many student organizations.
What should I choose to be my major?
Take the time to explore what interests you, and what you have an aptitude for. If you find something fun, you are much more likely to excel in this area.
What type of degree should I work towards?
Once you’ve decided on a major, look at the different degree programs offered by that department. For instance, The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers 3 undergraduate majors (B.A. in Physics, B.S. in Physics, B.S. in Engineering Physics), as well as 2 minors (Physics and Astronomy) which can be individually concentrated in one of several areas of basic or applied science.
How can I pay for my schooling?
The University of Maine is committed to providing financial assistance to qualified applicants on the basis of need, academic excellence and special talent. Scholarships, grants, loans and work programs are available to eligible students.
- Students interested in student loans should submit a FAFSA by February 15th to ensure on-time receipt. The FAFSA code is 002053. This form is required for all federally subsidized loans.
- Contact the Office of Student Financial Aid for more detailed information.
- Contact the Department of Physics and Astronomy for scholarship information. Each semester the department awards its own scholarships.
The Clery Act
Please take note: A recent change in a federal law, The Clery Act, requires universities to disclose to prospective students our three-year statistics regarding campus crime, including public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. This report includes our policies for campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. You can obtain a copy of this report by accessing the following website, http://www.umaine.edu/security, or by contacting the Director of Public Safety, University of Maine, 375 College Ave., Orono, ME 04473, 207.581.4053.
We invite you to contact us to set up a day to tour the department and have a chat with our faculty and current students!
If you are a potential undergraduate student, please contact Dr. MacKenzie Stetzer (physics@maine.edu), our graduate coordinator, to set up a visit.
If you are interested in one of our undergraduate degrees, please contact Dr. John Thompson (umphysicschair@maine.edu), Department Chair, or Mariana Haletska (physics@maine.edu), Administrative Specialist.