Physicists study matter and the physical world, from the vast universe to the smallest subatomic particles. They address age-old questions, such as “How do things work?” and “Where do we come from?” They question, observe, experiment and create models and theories to better understand our world.
The University of Toledo has a world-class Department of Physics and Astronomy. Our passionate faculty members work on cutting-edge research and encourage freshmen to work alongside them in the lab.
Physics is the basis for the other sciences and modern technology. It is responsible for solar power, microelectronics, lasers and nuclear energy. An understanding of physics plays a crucial role in addressing important challenges, such as energy production, semiconductor technology and climate change.
Our B.S. degree:
- Requires more math, research and technical experience
- Is the best choice if you want to continue to graduate school; focus on a research career; or go into a STEM-related job after graduation.
Concentrations in our B.S. major include:
- Applied physics
- Astrophysics
- Medical physics
- Physics
The astrophysics concentration is a good choice for students interested in pursuing graduate studies and an advanced research career in astronomy. A B.A. in Astronomy from UToledo is another option for students interested in getting a strong background in basic physics and astronomy. You can customize your undergraduate education to pursue a variety of science-related careers.
Top Reasons to Study Physics at UToledo
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Undergraduate research.We won’t make you wait until grad school to get in the lab, like most schools. Start as early as your freshman year to work with faculty on leading-edge research. Publish in journals, present at conferences and learn the skills you need to solve technical problems on your own.
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Passionate, expert faculty.Our department is small enough that faculty gets to know students by name. Five faculty members have been elected fellows of the American Physical Society, a rare, international honor for members. Five of them are endowed professors. Others have been named outstanding lecturers and researchers by UToledo.
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Award-winning chapter.The Society of Physics Students. Get involved in education and public outreach, this chapter organizes lectures, networking opportunities and social activities.
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Graduate school options.UToledo offers master’s and PhD programs in physics. Undergrads benefit from these programs that draw high-level faculty and students to campus.
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High-tech labs.UToledo hosts:
- The Toledo High Energy Ion Accelerator, used for atomic physics research
- State-of-the-art equipment in the large Wright Center for Photovoltaic Innovation and Commercialization, used for solar energy research
- Several parallel computing clusters, as well as access to the Ohio Supercomputer Cluster, used for theoretical and computational research
- Radiation and diagnostic equipment to perform research in medical physics
What jobs can I get with a physics degree?
UToledo students don’t just learn physics. They gain skills in critical thinking, problem solving, modeling, design and development — all important for keeping up with changing technology.
Many of our students pursue graduate degrees. Others find work in a wide array of careers, many of which don’t have “physics” in the job title. Physics graduates tend to advance quickly and find rewarding careers because of their strong backgrounds in fundamental science.
Graduates find opportunities in a wide variety of industries, such as:
- Business
- Computer Science
- Electronics
- Law
- Optical communications
- Solar energy
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
At UToledo, we take you beyond the textbooks and the four walls of a classroom. These real-world experiences are what help our graduates gain professional skills and land jobs.
Internships
Finding an internship is easy thanks to UToledo’s robust community partnerships with companies and organizations around the region. Dive into unique opportunities that prepare you to launch your career.
Internships help you:
- Gain practical experience
- Build your resume
- Refine your skills
- Cultivate contacts
Internships often lead to full-time jobs after graduation!
The Rocket Career Center can help you track down job opportunities. You also might be able to receive academic credit for your internship or job.
Research
Our strong emphasis on undergraduate research gives our students the skills to think on their own to solve technical problems.
Students use modern research facilities, such as:
- A Ritter 1-meter telescope
- Accelerator labs
- Spectrometers, lasers and computers
They help conduct research in:
- Photovoltaics
- Stellar and galactic astrophysics
- Theoretical and computational materials science
- Fast ion beams
- Physics of the DNA molecule
Faculty and students in UToledo’s Department of Physics and Astronomy conduct world-class research. They have close ties to the larger, professional community.
Our primary areas of strength are in:
- Atomic, molecular and optical physics
- Condensed matter/materials science and photovoltaics
- Astronomy and astrophysics
- Alternative energy
- Biological physics
- Medical physics (with strong ties to the UToledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences)
Study Abroad
Travel, experience new cultures and meet new people — all while earning college credit.
UToledo has an international exchange program with Salford University in the United Kingdom. Our students spend a semester or a year in England, and Salford students bring a fresh perspective to our campus.
Rocket Kids Semester
The Rocket Kids program offers University students a fall, spring or summer semester internship providing recreational programming to U.S. military youth while experiencing the world in locations such as Germany, Italy, Belgium and The Netherlands.
Rocket Kids interns will gain practical experience in programming, leadership, health and wellness, creative arts, performing arts, cultural and literary arts, team and individual sports, adventure and outdoor recreation and STEM education.
On-campus and Part-time Jobs
- Learn skills that prepare you for a career after graduation.
- Build your resume.
- Earn money.
If you want to work, there are plenty of opportunities on campus and at businesses near campus. If you demonstrate financial need, you may qualify for the federal work-study program.
Student Organizations
Our most successful students get involved.
UToledo has 400+ student organizations that will help you:
- Make friends.
- Build your resume.
- Network.
- Be a leader.
- Serve your community.
- Have fun!
Tuition and Scholarships
Most new students don't pay full price. 94% of new UToledo students receive scholarships or other state and federal aid.
Keep in mind: Your cost will vary by college, program and a host of other options. This is the average amount full-time students pay per year.
Tuition and Fees
Living Expenses (Housing & Food)
per year
How to pay for collegeInternational Student - How to Pay for College
Choose Ohio First scholarship
Ohio residents who have been accepted into this STEM program are eligible for the Choose Ohio First scholarship — a four-year, renewable scholarship.
Honors College
The Jesup Scott Honors College at The University of Toledo offer our best and brightest the resources and opportunities needed to unlock your fullest potential. Whether you aspire following graduation to cure disease, innovate technology, advance statecraft, redefine markets, or express creatively, together we can fuel vibrant and promising tomorrows.
Honors students come from a variety of countries, backgrounds and cultures. While we may bond over a tough class, our differences make us blossom.
Benefits of Honors
The Honors College is a community of academically gifted students from all majors on campus. Students take unique Honors classes taught by dedicated Honors faculty and complete an Honors thesis or capstone project in their major, earning the Honors medallion at graduation within their normal program of study. Honors students are challenged to think more deeply and broadly about what they learn. With special academic, cultural, and professional development opportunities, their education extends beyond the classroom.
Honors students can also choose exclusive housing in the Honors Academic Village or President's Hall.
Explore more about what the Honors College can offer you as a budding professional, inquisitive scholar, and engaged person.
Visit Campus
A campus visit is the best way to figure out if UToledo is a great fit for you.
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