Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

What you'll study

The Engineering Physics degree combines foundational physics and advanced mathematics with applied engineering topics to give students a broad, flexible technical education. Typical course work includes classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and statistical mechanics alongside engineering subjects such as circuits and electronics, materials science, fluid mechanics, dynamics and control systems. Students also take substantial mathematics courses — calculus sequence, differential equations, and linear algebra — and engage in laboratory classes that emphasise measurement, instrumentation and data analysis.

The programme is usually structured over four years and integrates general education requirements in the liberal arts. A key feature is project-based learning: laboratory courses and a senior capstone or design project require students to define problems, design experiments or prototypes, and present technical results. Computational methods and programming for scientific applications are emphasised, with courses or modules covering numerical simulation, modelling and data processing. Electives permit specialisation in areas such as electronics, optics and photonics, materials, or renewable energy systems.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in mathematics and science. Successful candidates typically have completed courses in:

• Algebra, geometry and a full calculus course or calculus readiness
• High school physics
• High school chemistry (recommended)

Admissions will consider overall academic record, teacher recommendations and a personal statement outlining interest in physics and engineering. Standardised test scores may be considered where provided but are not the sole criterion. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or other institutional pathways. Mature or transfer students with relevant college coursework or technical experience are encouraged to contact the admissions office for evaluation of prior learning and possible credit transfer.

Career prospects

Graduates of Engineering Physics are well prepared for roles that require strong analytical and problem‑solving skills. Typical career paths include:

• Instrumentation and electronics technician or engineer
• Design and development in aerospace, defence, automotive or renewable energy sectors
• Materials and manufacturing roles focusing on testing, quality and process improvement
• Engineering support roles in systems engineering, control and robotics
• Technical roles in research laboratories, national labs or applied R&D departments

Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in engineering, applied physics, materials science or related fields, or obtain professional engineering licensure. The programme’s combination of hands‑on laboratory experience and theoretical grounding makes alumni attractive to employers seeking adaptable technical staff.

Why study at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s offers a small‑campus environment with close faculty mentorship, which benefits students in laboratory‑intensive programmes like Engineering Physics. The university’s liberal arts foundation encourages communication, ethics and teamwork alongside technical training. Engineering Physics students gain practical experience through well‑equipped labs, project courses and a capstone requirement, and have opportunities to pursue internships or cooperative placements with regional industry partners.

The university’s Marist Catholic heritage emphasises community, service and ethical leadership, shaping a learning environment that supports holistic development. Students who want personalised advising, accessible faculty and a curriculum that balances theory with hands‑on practice will find these features valuable when preparing for technical careers or further study.