Boise State University

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad physics foundation in classical and modern theory, combined with specialised modules and laboratory work relevant to nuclear and particle physics. Typical areas of study include:

• Core physics: classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, and quantum mechanics.
• Mathematics for physics: calculus sequence, differential equations, linear algebra and mathematical methods for physicists.
• Nuclear and particle topics: introductory and advanced nuclear physics, particle physics and elementary particles, radioactivity and decay processes, nuclear reactions and scattering theory.
• Laboratory and experimental techniques: intermediate and advanced physics labs, radiation detection and measurement, instrumentation, data acquisition and error analysis.
• Computational physics: numerical methods, scientific programming (commonly using Python, C++ or MATLAB), Monte Carlo techniques used in detector simulations and data analysis.
• Related electives: courses in solid-state physics, optics, electronics, and courses in chemistry or materials science that support applied nuclear measurements.
• Research and capstone: opportunities for faculty-led undergraduate research projects, senior thesis or capstone projects that often involve experiment design, data analysis and written reports.

Entry requirements

Applicants should demonstrate strong preparation in mathematics and the physical sciences. Typical expectations include high-school level calculus and physics; required documents usually include academic transcripts and proof of secondary-school completion. Boise State considers the overall academic record and preparation for a rigorous STEM programme. International applicants must provide evidence of English language proficiency as required by the university.

Transfer students are assessed on college coursework already completed; prior completion of calculus and introductory physics courses will facilitate progression into upper-division physics classes. Admission to some research or honours tracks may require departmental permission or a minimum GPA in major coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BS in Physics and emphasis in nuclear and particle topics pursue a variety of careers. Common pathways include:

• Graduate study in physics, nuclear engineering, medical physics or related fields leading to research or academic careers.
• Technical and professional roles in national laboratories, government research facilities and industry (for example in radiation measurement, detector development, instrumentation and accelerator operations).
• Applied roles in healthcare technology and medical imaging, radiation safety and regulatory agencies.
• Work in data science, software development and engineering roles that value strong quantitative, programming and problem-solving skills.
• Secondary-school and community college teaching for those who pursue appropriate certification.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State offers a physics programme that blends classroom learning with hands-on laboratory experience and accessible faculty mentorship. The university supports undergraduate research, enabling students to join ongoing projects or develop independent senior research under faculty supervision. Small to moderate class sizes in upper-division courses mean closer interaction with instructors and practical guidance on experimental and computational work.

Boise State's regional connections and partnerships create opportunities for internships, collaborative projects and exposure to applied physics work in industry and research organisations. Studying in Boise also provides access to a growing technology and engineering community, which can be useful for securing internships and early-career positions aligned with nuclear measurement, instrumentation and quantitative analytics.