Program Offerings
• Bachelor of science degree in Physics
• Master of science degree in Physics
• Doctor of philosophy degree in Physics
• Minor: Physics
What is Physics?
Physics is a science that uses experiments, measurements, and analysis to identify quantitative physical laws for how the universe works. It is focused on every level of the natural world both on the microscopic and macroscopic levels.
At South Dakota Mines, we offer the unique combination of world-leading research and undergraduate education. Due to the proximity to the Sanford Underground Research Facility, our physics students have the opportunity to participate in premier underground physics experiments including the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment and the LZ dark matter experiment.
What does a physicist do?
Physicists explore the nature of physical reality at its most fundamental level, from the icy depths of the South Pole to the hunt for dark matter which may be an important part of the universe. Physicists ask the fundamental questions - How did the universe begin? How was the universe made? What is it made of?
They explore the properties and laws that govern space, time, energy, and matter.
Duties a physicist might undertake include:
• Planning and conducting scientific experiments to test theories and discover properties of matter and energy
• Developing scientific theories and models that attempt to explain the properties of the natural world, such as the force of gravity or the creation of sub-atomic particles
• Writing scientific papers
• Presenting research findings
• Writing proposals for research funding
• Doing complex math to analyze data
• Designing scientific equipment
• Developing computer software to analyze and model data
First-Year Courses
First-year courses required for physics majors include:
• Chemistry
• Calculus
• Composition
• Physics
• Computer science
Course Curriculum
Link to Catalog
Internships and Co-ops
At South Dakota Mines, 79% of students gain real-world experience through internships, co-ops, and research at such places as Soudan Underground Laboratory and Sanford Underground Research Facility located in Lead, just an hour from campus. Our students earn an average salary of $19.70/hour on these internships and co-ops.