engineering
The Engineering Physics major provides a rigorous foundation in physics and engineering while emphasizing problem-solving, experimentation, and computational modeling. Students apply advanced mathematics and scientific principles to understand physical systems and address real-world engineering challenges.
Students develop a deep understanding of physics and learn to solve conceptual and analytical problems using advanced mathematics. Coursework covers areas including mechanics, waves, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, optics, relativity, quantum mechanics, and atomic, molecular, and nuclear physics.
Students gain practical laboratory skills through multiple physics laboratory experiences. They learn to collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data while developing an understanding of how experimentation can be used to investigate physical and engineering questions.
Students also develop computational skills that allow them to model physical systems and investigate complex problems using programming and computerized tools. These skills complement traditional analytical approaches and prepare students to work with modern scientific and engineering technologies.
Throughout the major, students learn to communicate technical information clearly and apply their knowledge in new situations. They develop the ability to explain physics and engineering principles, communicate experimental results, and synthesize scientific knowledge, engineering principles, and problem-solving techniques.
The Engineering Physics major leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree and combines advanced physics and mathematics with coursework in chemistry, programming, and engineering. Students complete courses in calculus, differential equations, general physics, modern physics, thermodynamics, classical mechanics, statics, and engineering design.
The major provides a broad technical foundation that can support careers and further study in engineering, physics, technology, research, and related fields. Students should have a member of the physics faculty as their academic advisor by the end of their first year to help plan their academic and professional pathway.
Students interested in teaching physics in Missouri can also use the Engineering Physics major as part of a pathway toward teacher certification. Students may pursue the Secondary Education major with the required physics content coursework or complete the Engineering Physics BA followed by a Master of Arts in Teaching.
Engineering Physics prepares students to apply physics and engineering principles to technical challenges across a range of industries. Graduates can pursue careers in engineering, research, technology, manufacturing, energy, aerospace, and other fields that rely on strong quantitative and analytical skills.
The major also provides a strong foundation for graduate and professional study. Students may continue into engineering programs, graduate study in physics or applied science, or other technical fields that build on their background in mathematics, physics, computation, and experimentation.
Potential career paths include:
Students gain hands-on experience through physics laboratories, intermediate laboratory work, engineering design, and computational coursework. These experiences allow students to connect mathematical and scientific concepts with experimentation, modeling, and real-world problem-solving.
Students can also pursue internships, research experiences, and other opportunities in physics and engineering. These experiences can help students explore career interests, build technical skills, and prepare for graduate or professional study.
Engineering Physics provides a flexible foundation for students interested in both physics and engineering. Students can use the major to prepare for technical careers, graduate study, or specialized professional programs while developing transferable skills in quantitative reasoning, computation, experimentation, and communication.
Students interested in engineering may also pursue William Jewell’s Dual-Degree Engineering pathway, which allows Engineering Physics majors to continue their engineering education through a 3-2 program with a partner institution.
