Physics
The aim of physics is to study nature at its most fundamental level— to gain a unifying
understanding of the world around us. As a discipline, it studies systems ranging
in size from the smallest elementary particles to the entire universe. Almost any
scientific problem can be approached using the ideas and methods of physics, which
is why there are many "hybrid" disciplines such as astrophysics, biophysics, and geophysics.
Physics lies at the heart of the natural sciences. This central position among the
sciences means that physics is an ideal starting point for many kinds of scientific
and engineering work. It also means that physics is a perfect academic focus for a
liberal arts education.
Training in physics gives students great flexibility in selecting a career. The powerful
array of technical skills taught to physics majors - critical thinking and problem
solving, computers, electronics, mathematical analysis, technical writing - are of
practical importance in many areas of theoretical and applied science and are essential
to doing good science in general.
Science is a way to teach how something gets to be known, what is not known, to what
extent things are known (for nothing is known absolutely), how to handle doubt and
uncertainty, what the rules of evidence are, how to think about things so that judgments
can be made, how to distinguish truth from fraud, and from show.
- Richard Feynman (Theoretical Physicist & Nobel Laureate)
Studying for a physics degree at Ouachita will provide you with benefits which last
a lifetime. Potential employers value the broad training, versatility, and laboratory
experience of physics graduates. Students who study physics are prepared to work on
forefront ideas in science and technology, in academia, the government, or the private
sector. Many of our students have gone on to graduate school in physics, related sciences,
or engineering. Others have pursued medical school, computer science, teaching, or
a career in business. We would love to count you among our future graduates.
Dr. Kevin Cornelius
email: [email protected]
OBU Box 3764
Arkadelphia, AR 71998-0001
phone: 870.245.5407
fax: 870.245.5241