Prof. Belloni and Hana Kamran chat in class

Physics

Physics at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË

The Physics Department offers a full range of courses toward a major in physics and excellent opportunities to collaborate directly with faculty on research efforts, an opportunity that is typically only available in a setting the size of »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË.

Because physics is a fundamental natural science—linking science, mathematics, and philosophy—a major in physics provides a natural cornerstone for a well-rounded liberal arts education. 

Physics at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË has always been exciting and challenging; from the first X-ray detection in the U.S., to the first medical use of X-rays (1896), to the creation of the Physics Honor Society - Sigma Pi Sigma (1921), to today’s cutting-edge research and pedagogy.

If you would like to tour our facilities, including our labs and classes, please contact the Physics Department Chair, Prof. Mario Belloni at mabelloni@davidson.edu.

Prof Kuchera w Student Collaborative Research

Students and faculty members engage in collaborative research projects both during the academic year and over the summer. Examples of faculty research topics with students include the areas of: astrophysics, atomic, molecular, and optical physics, condensed matter physics, energy technology, high-energy and nuclear physics, quantum physics and 3D X-radiography.

Prof. Belloni w Student Facilites and Equipment

Our laboratory spaces are equipped for hands-on learning and cutting-edge research in computational, experimental, observational and theoretical physics. We offer students opportunities to work with state-of-the-art computation and lab instrumentation throughout the curriculum, and especially when doing research.

Students Touring a very sophisticated engine

Our 3/2 dual-degree and pre-engineering programs offer students the opportunity to pursue engineering after »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË. The program also provides opportunities for application-based independent studies and research in such fields as automotive, structural and aeronautical engineering, nuclear and renewable energy technology, non-destructive imaging of art and artifacts, and the physics of archery.

Students on the front lawn during the eclipse

»Ê¼Ò»ªÈË's Society of Physics Students (SPS) is very active and engaged, planning outreach and other events both on and off campus. The group has won numerous Outstanding Chapter Awards and multiple »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË students have served on the SPS National Council.

Physics Lab w Equipment Green Light

Since the founding of the college, the study of science has been a part of the »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË curriculum. Prof. Henry Louis Smith, a native of Greensboro, N.C., accepted a position as professor of physics in 1887 and subsequently performed one of the first X-Ray experiments in the United States here on campus.

Astronaut Tom Marshburn in Space

»Ê¼Ò»ªÈË physics majors have pursued graduate study in fields such as physics, engineering, medical physics, medicine, business, statistics, law, economics, philosophy, among others. Students have been employed in a wide variety of positions including teachers, engineers, radiologists, computer programmers, technical salespeople, patent lawyers, and even an astronaut.

Physics Events

No upcoming events