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The Department of Physics offers expanding programs for both undergraduate and graduate students. Despite this growth, the department maintains a relatively compact size, fostering close mentorship opportunities with all 12 faculty members. Students frequently engage in research from early stages, contributing to peer-reviewed publications and presenting findings at regional and national conferences. Our students demonstrate exceptional involvement, consistently excelling in the University Physics Competition and actively supporting community outreach initiatives. The department specializes in three key research areas: materials science (with emphasis on soft materials), computational physics, and physics education research. This focused approach enables national and international recognition. Multiple degree pathways equip students for careers in industry, government, and academia. The Fargo/Moorhead metropolitan area hosts three physics programs across different institutions, with cross-registration through Tri-College University providing course offerings comparable to major research universities.
As the most fundamental physical science, physics provides the foundational principles underlying technology and diverse disciplines including astronomy, chemistry, engineering, materials science, photonics, and life sciences. Physics graduates frequently assume leadership roles across sectors, as exemplified by prominent figures like Jimmy Carter, Elon Musk, Steven Wolfram, Douglas Hofstadter, and Angela Merkel.