Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

What you'll study

The programme combines a solid sequence in classical and modern physics with specialised courses and laboratory experience in nuclear and particle physics. Core topics include mechanics, electrodynamics, quantum mechanics, statistical physics and thermodynamics, and mathematical methods for physicists. Concentration and elective modules emphasise subatomic physics, for example nuclear physics, particle physics, radiation physics, instrumentation and detector methods, and computational techniques for data analysis.

• Introductory and intermediate physics: calculus-based mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics.
• Advanced theory: quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and advanced electrodynamics.
• Nuclear and particle topics: nuclear physics, elementary particle physics, radiation interactions, decay processes and basic accelerator physics.
• Laboratory and practical work: intermediate and advanced physics labs, radiation detection and measurement labs, electronics and instrumentation coursework, and computational physics projects using scientific programming and data-analysis tools.
• Mathematics and supporting science: multivariable calculus, differential equations, linear algebra and sometimes courses in chemistry or computer science to support experimental work.
• Capstone/Research: an undergraduate research project or capstone in experimental or theoretical nuclear/particle physics under faculty supervision, with opportunities to present results.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong record in mathematics and physics. Typical academic preparation includes courses up to and including calculus and introductory physics. Colleges and transfer students are considered with completion of college-level calculus and introductory physics sequences.

• Academic background: strong grades in mathematics (including calculus) and physics are recommended.
• Recommended subjects: calculus, physics, chemistry and computer science where available.
• Standardised tests: MTSU follows institutional policies on standardised tests; check the university admissions page for current guidance on SAT/ACT or test-optional status.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary qualifications and evidence of English language proficiency as required by the university.
• Transfers and mature students: prior college coursework in calculus and physics will strengthen an application; transcripts and syllabi may be requested for transfer credit evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates with a physics degree focused on nuclear and particle physics pursue a wide range of careers. Many continue to graduate study (Master’s or PhD) leading to research positions at universities or national laboratories. Others move directly into technical roles in industry or government.

• Research and academia: graduate programmes in nuclear/particle physics, astrophysics, or related fields.
• National and government labs: technical or scientific roles in laboratories and facilities that focus on nuclear science, radiation detection and applied research.
• Medical and health physics: roles in radiation safety, medical physics (usually requiring further professional training), and diagnostic or therapeutic technology industries.
• Industry and engineering: instrumentation, electronics, sensors, and engineering roles where strong experimental and quantitative skills are required.
• Data-focused careers: data analysis, software development, and modelling roles in finance, tech and energy sectors that value problem-solving and computational expertise.
• Education and outreach: science teaching, museum and public engagement positions where physics knowledge and communication skills are important.

Why study at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

MTSU’s Department of Physics and Astronomy provides a student-centred environment with small class sizes and accessible faculty who supervise undergraduate research. The university emphasises hands-on laboratory learning and offers modern undergraduate labs in electronics, optics and radiation detection that support training in experimental nuclear and particle physics.

Students benefit from the university’s location in Tennessee, which offers proximity to regional research employers and facilities; many students take internships or collaborative research placements with nearby scientific organisations. MTSU also provides advising and career services tailored to physics majors, helping students prepare for graduate school applications, internships and employment. The department supports student involvement in seminars, research projects and opportunities to present work at conferences, which are valuable for professional development in nuclear and particle physics.