California State University

What you'll study

The programme delivers a strong foundation in classical and modern physics, mathematics and experimental skills, then offers targeted modules and laboratory work that address nuclear and particle physics topics. Course sequencing typically begins with calculus-based introductory mechanics and electromagnetism, followed by intermediate courses in thermodynamics, waves, modern physics and quantum mechanics. Mathematics courses include calculus, differential equations and linear algebra; computational physics and data analysis are integrated throughout.

• Core physics modules: Classical Mechanics, Electrodynamics, Quantum Mechanics I–II, Statistical Mechanics, Laboratory Methods in Physics.
• Nuclear and particle specialisms: Nuclear Physics and Radiation, Introductory and Advanced Particle Physics, Nuclear Instrumentation and Detector Physics, Radiation Safety and Health Physics.
• Experimental and computational training: Advanced experimental labs, electronics for physicists, Monte Carlo methods, programming for scientific computing (Python/C++), and data analysis techniques used in high-energy and nuclear experiments.
• Complementary modules: Mathematical Methods for Physicists, Computational Modelling, Materials Science and courses in physical chemistry or engineering depending on elective choices.
• Capstone and research opportunities: Senior thesis or capstone project involving original laboratory or computational research, often undertaken with faculty members or through collaborative projects with nearby national laboratories and research centres.

Programme structure

The degree is structured over four years of full-time study with progressive depth in both theory and practice. Early years emphasise core theory and mathematics; second and third years introduce nuclear and particle topics and advanced laboratory work; final year focuses on a major research project or thesis, advanced electives and preparation for graduate study or employment.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed a strong secondary school programme with substantial preparation in mathematics and physics. Typical preparation includes multivariable calculus or readiness for first-year calculus, and high-school physics; many campuses prefer demonstrated achievement in algebra, trigonometry and calculus. International qualifications such as A-levels, International Baccalaureate or equivalent secondary credentials are accepted where they show comparable preparation.

• Academic prerequisites: High-school physics and mathematics (calculus recommended). Successful applicants typically have strong grades in STEM subjects.
• Standardised tests and placements: Some campuses may require placement tests in mathematics; policies on standardised tests vary across the CSU system.
• Other evidence: Personal statement describing interest in physics, letters of recommendation, and for transfer students, college-level coursework in calculus and physics are commonly reviewed.
• Transfer students: Applicants transferring from community colleges should have completed calculus-based physics and calculus sequence, plus an appropriate number of transferable general-education units.

Career prospects

Graduates with a physics degree emphasising nuclear and particle physics have a wide range of career options. Many proceed to graduate school (master’s or PhD) in physics, nuclear engineering or related fields. Others enter the workforce directly, applying their quantitative, experimental and computational skills in industry and public sector roles.

• Research and national laboratories: Positions or internships at national laboratories and research centres working on nuclear measurements, radiation detection, accelerator technology and particle-physics experiments.
• Engineering and technical roles: Careers in nuclear engineering, instrumentation, detector design, health physics and radiation protection, as well as roles in aerospace, defence and energy sectors.
• Data science and computing: Roles in data analysis, software development, modelling and simulation in commercial and research environments.
• Education and outreach: Secondary-school or community-college teaching (with certification where required), science communication and public engagement.
• Industry careers: Opportunities in medical physics, medical imaging companies, radiopharmaceuticals, and quality assurance or regulatory roles in industries dealing with ionising radiation.

Why study at California State University

California State University campuses offer an undergraduate-focused environment with an emphasis on hands-on learning, small-group instruction and accessible faculty mentorship. The system’s strong ties to regional research institutions and industry provide internship and collaborative research opportunities, including partnerships and pathways to nearby national laboratories and university research centres.

Students benefit from modern teaching and laboratory facilities tailored to undergraduate education, explicit training in experimental techniques and computational methods, and support services such as advising, tutoring and career development. The programme’s practical orientation prepares graduates for both immediate employment in technical roles and for competitive applications to graduate programmes in physics and related disciplines.