From the vastness of the cosmos to the tiniest subatomic particle and everything between, the study of physics provides a framework for all other sciences. Physics is a place to be fascinated by everyday phenomena, to wonder at the immensity of the universe, and always ask “how?” Apply the principles of physics to astronomy and begin to discover how the world—and beyond—is made.

WHY STUDY PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY AT SEWANEE?

Physics and astronomy courses at Sewanee will provide a variety of opportunities for you to learn about the physical world—from everyday phenomena involving motion, energy, and light in the macroscopic world to the investigation of how such observations led to useful descriptions in the microscopic realm and in the vastness of space.

At Sewanee, a focused physics education fits naturally within the liberal arts and sciences environment that forms the core of the Sewanee experience. Taking physics and astronomy courses will help you develop a robust understanding of fundamental physical principles—the essence of “how the world works”—as well as valuable reasoning, problem-solving, and experimentation skills. You’ll delve into advanced theoretical topics, utilize research-grade instrumentation, participate in faculty-led and independent research projects, both on campus and at other institutions. 

As a student of physics at Sewanee, you'll have the chance to carry out experimental and theoretical research in the fields of condensed matter,  thin films, atomic and molecular physics, optics, and astronomy. Major laboratory resources include a scanning electron microscope, an E-Beam physical vapor deposition chamber, and the Cordell-Lorenz Observatory, one of the top 50 observatories in the world for new discoveries.

If you're curious about the world around you, from modern-day technologies to the minuteness of the nano-realm, the study of physics and astronomy at Sewanee will fuel your curiosity. You will get to join Professors in scholary pursuits like hunting for asteroids and and extrasolar planets, delving into new areas of nuclear and condensed matter physics including simulation, fabrication, and optical studies of functional nanomaterials. 

FIRST DESTINATIONS: Physics MAJORS

Sewanee graduates secure positions in a variety of fields. Some you would expect, others, are a bit of a surprise. Sewanee prepares you for your profession and your passion. Below is a sampling of recent graduates' first job.

  • Quality Technician, EC Manufacturing, Kansas City, KS.
  • Ecology Intern, U.S. Forest Service, Athens, GA.
  • Research Intern, Tall Timbers Research Station, Tallahassee, FL.
GRADUATE SCHOOL & PREPROFESSIONAL PROGRAMS: Physics MAJORS

Sewanee graduates enjoy extraordinary acceptance rates to top graduate and preprofessional programs. Below is a sampling of where Sewanee physics grads have continued their education. 

  • MS in Electrical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis
  • Ph.D. in Physics, Vanderbilt University
  • Ph.D. in Physics, University of Tennessee

A Sampling of Courses

Modern Mechanics
Physics

This course begins with the conservation of momentum and energy. It deals with energy and gravitational interactions, and emphasizes the atomic structure of matter, and the modeling of materials as particles connected by springs. The course is designed for engineering and science students. The main goal of this course, which is formatted with an integrated lab-lecture (studio) approach, is to have the students engage in a process central to science-the attempt to model a broad range of physical phenomena using a small set of powerful fundamental principles.

PHYS 103
Survey of Astronomy
Physics

A one-semester, non-laboratory course intended for non-science majors. The topics covered include history of astronomy, physics of astronomy, and current developments in this dynamic field. There is an out-of-class assignment to visit the Cordell-Lorenz Observatory for a two-hour observing session three times during the semester during clear nights more than five days away from the Full Moon.

PHYS 149
Advanced Laboratory
Physics

This course offers an introduction to the theory and practice of experimental physics, with an emphasis on modern experiments and techniques. Experimental topics can include spectroscopy from gamma energies into the infrared, NMR, visible and infrared optics, holography and diffractive optics, scanning electron microscopy, and advanced electronics with computer interfacing. Some experiments are performed offsite to use instruments not available on campus.

PHYS 305
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Physics & Astronomy

Programs of Study & Related Programs

Requirements for the Major in Physics

Requirements for the Minor in Physics & Astronomy

Meet The Professors

Douglas Durig
ddurig@sewanee.edu

Dr. Durig taught Environmental Chemistry in past years, but he is now teaching Astronomy, General Physics, and Advanced Physics here at Sewanee. Doug and his students have discovered asteroids, comets and other celestial phenomena during their ongoing research at the Cordell-Lorenz Observatory

Professor of Chemistry and Physics and Director of The Cordell-Lorenz Observatory
Randolph Peterson
rpeterso@sewanee.edu

Dr. Peterson earned his Ph.D. from University of Tennessee and specializes in Accelerator-based Atomic Physics. Professor at Sewanee since 1989, he has also worked with Massachusetts Institute of Technology as a visiting scientist working specifically with radiation laboratories for electronics and a quantum nanostructure group.

Professor of Physics
Benito T. Szapiro
bszapiro@sewanee.edu

Dr. Szapiro was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Working as a professor at Sewanee since 1994, Dr. Szapiro has published numerous scientific articles and received a variety of academic awards. His research background includes gas lasers, optics, plasma diagnostic techniques, controlled nuclear fusion, electron beam generation, and much more.

Professor of Physics and Physics Department Chair
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Contact

Randy Peterson
Tom Costen Professor of Physics
Physics and Astronomy Department Chairman
rpeterso@sewanee.edu
Woods Lab 225, Ext. 1858

You Might Be Interested In

Cordell-Lorenz Observatory
A glimpse into the cosmos

If you’re a physics student, you’ll have access to Sewanee’s Cordell-Lorenz Observatory, a facility for research and academic enrichment activities. There are public observation times as well as cameras that capture comet and asteroid activity.

Star gaze!
3/2 Engineering Program
Blueprints for success

Sewanee collaborates with other schools to combine liberal arts and engineering curricula. In this 3/2 program track, you’ll end up receiving two baccalaureate degrees after three years at Sewanee plus two years at an engineering institution. Pre-engineering curriculum at Sewanee will prepare you with technical skills and social awareness.

Learn More
Sewanee Career Readiness
Unsure? You've come to the right place

No matter where you are in your career exploration process, Sewanee Career Readiness can help. You’ll get assistance with cover letters, resumes, networking, and preparing for an interview. Likewise, if you just feel overwhelmed by this new experience called adulting, swing by the office and get a pep talk from the SCR office.

Get to Know us