College of Science and Health
Physics
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Physics: Our Legacy of Excellence
Our physics program has a 100-year legacy of excellence, with ties to Nobel prize-winning physicists at The University of Chicago, the Manhattan Project, NASA and the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission. The program continues to build on this legacy today with its ties to Argonne National Laboratory and Fermilab.
Our state-of-the-art physics laboratories make use of hands-on, discovery-based learning to provide foundations in statics, dynamics, optics, thermodynamics, nuclear physics, spectroscopy, electromagnetism, and electronics. This strong foundation prepares students for careers in a variety of exciting fields.
Students have the opportunity to take on a variety of projects ranging from engineering physics to astrophysics to renewable energy applications. Our program faculty members are true scholars who regularly publish in prestigious scientific journals.
The BenU Difference
BenU Fosters a Vibrant and Collaborative Research Culture
The Physics Program at Benedictine University has a reputation for excellence. Our legacy builds on the work of Benedictine monks who have been part of historic scientific achievements, such as that of the Nobel Prize laureate Arthur Holly Compton, the Manhattan project, as well as NASA space missions. The program prepares students for success in future graduate work while also providing the practical skills necessary to enter the workforce in a variety of exciting career paths.
At Benedictine, you’ll receive personalized attention and mentorship from our talented and dedicated faculty. Our exceptional faculty-to-student ratio ensures that you’ll receive the guidance and support you need to excel. Additionally, you can participate in faculty research projects as early as your freshman year, gaining invaluable experience and building your academic profile.
To ensure your academic success, we offer generous merit-based scholarships, minimizing financial barriers and empowering you to focus on your studies.
Join Benedictine’s Physics program and embark on an exceptional journey of discovery and innovation. We equip you with the knowledge, skills, and experiences to become a leader in the ever-changing world of physics.
Benedictine’s Physics Program: A Launchpad for Success
BenU students have the benefit of in-person lectures and labs, all taught by full-time physics faculty. They have hands-on access to modern research-grade instruments and computer-based data acquisition. Students can participate in faculty research projects in theoretical and experimental physics as early as their freshman year. They can engage in co-curricular professional-related science activities through our active chapter of the Society of Physics Students. Students are eligible to receive merit-based financial support from several endowed physics scholarships that are distributed annually.
Graduates of Benedictine University’s physics program will possess a comprehensive understanding of the major fields of physics, demonstrating their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to solve complex problems. They will be actively engaged with the field beyond the classroom, fostering a lifelong passion for exploration and discovery in the fascinating world of physics.
A BS in Physics Opens Doors to a Vast Array of Career Paths
Here are some diverse opportunities for graduates:
Research Scientist: Conduct groundbreaking research in various fields, contributing to scientific advancements and shaping the future.
Data Scientist: Utilize data science skills to extract valuable insights and solve complex problems across diverse industries.
Aerospace Engineer: Design innovative technologies for space exploration and defense systems, pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and achievement.
High School Physics Teacher: Inspire the next generation of scientists by igniting their passion for physics and fostering their curiosity about the natural world.
Medical Physicist: Apply physics principles to medical diagnosis and treatment, directly impacting patients’ lives and improving healthcare outcomes.
This list is not exhaustive, and the specific career path you choose will depend on your interests, skills, and aspirations. With a BS in Physics, you’ll gain a versatile skillset and strong foundation in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and critical thinking, opening doors to diverse career opportunities in various fields.
What our alumni have done with this degree:
Our students have obtained internships in prestigious institutions, including NASA, Argonne National Laboratory, and Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. BenU physics graduates are currently employed in various educational and industrial organizations, such as the University of Chicago, Plainfield Central High School, Reavis High School, Mars, Inc., Synata Bio, Revcor, US Marine Corps, Epic Systems, and Jacobs Engineering, to name a few.
Here is an example of some courses you may take in the Physics program:
- Modern Physics Laboratory
- Classical Thermodynamics
- Molecular Dynamics and Kinetics
- Quantum & Statistical Mechanics
- Electricity & Magnetism
Physics courses (PHYS)
Lisle undergraduate course descriptions
Mesa undergraduate course descriptions
The Benedictine chapter of the Society of Physics Students conducts a multifaceted program to stimulate interest in science and engineering. Students also have the opportunity to attend lectures and presentations at nearby universities and research facilities.
Student Testimonial
John Romal
B.S. ’13, Physics, Chemistry
Environmental Engineering Lab and Safety Manager
Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering at Iowa State University
“The culture BenU promotes further shaped my character as a whole. The faculty members I have worked with portray humility and discipline that I have embraced and made an impact how I approach life after college. Even up until now, years after college, I still receive support and advice from them, which gives “mentorship” its true definition.”