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From software engineering to teaching to research, alumni find common ground in their Adelphi experience.
Physics
Gain the tools, training and experience you need to launch a successful career in many different science and technology fields.
Why Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree in Physics?
With a focus on problem-solving and analytical thinking, physics gives you a truly 21st-century skill set. Our physics students have gone on to become successful engineers (civil, biomedical, electrical or mechanical), researchers, computational scientists and teachers.
Why Major in Physics at Adelphi?
- Receive one-on-one attention in small classes from exceptional professors who are committed to your success.
- Conduct research in cutting-edge facilities on campus and present your findings at conferences nationwide.
- Tailor your degree to your interests and goals, then graduate prepared to chart your own unique career path.
Real Stories from Adelphi Students and Alumni
Check out what students and alumni have to say about the Adelphi Physics experience.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Physics?
With a focus on problem solving and analytical thinking, physics gives you a truly 21st-century skill set. Our physics students have gone on to become successful engineers (civil, biomedical, electrical or mechanical), researchers, computational scientists and teachers.
This program is STEM-designated offering specialized training in high-demand fields and eligible international students can extend their OPT to 36 months.
92%*
* based on Adelphi University Career Outcomes Survey: Class of 2022
of our baccalaureate graduates say that Adelphi University increased their intellectual curiosity, ability and potential
based on Adelphi University Career Outcomes Survey: Class of 2022
Starting from day one, I knew I’d found a family in the physics department at Adelphi. The professors were invested in seeing us succeed and helped us customize our program of study. Being able to fulfill my dual passions for physics and athletics made my Adelphi experience one I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.
Jose Velasquez ’18
BS in Physics
Published:
An Adelphi professor changed the course of this brilliant NASA researcher’s life—by connecting her with internships, helping her secure an opportunity with the National Science Foundation and serving as an extraordinarily caring mentor.
Minor & Joint Degree Options
Minor in Physics
The minor in physics is designed to provide a solid foundation in introductory physics and elective courses, chosen in consultation with an adviser, to broaden your foundation in related technical fields. The minor in physics is an especially relevant complement for students majoring in Adelphi’s math, computer science, chemistry and biology programs.
Joint Degree Options
Physics majors at Adelphi have the opportunity to accelerate their path to a rewarding professional career by completing a joint degree in engineering.
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The National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Undergraduate Education has awarded Adelphi University and Principal Investigator Andrea Ward, PhD, associate provost for research and special projects, a $2.49 million grant for the “Ensuring STEM Student Success Through an Integrative Support Program.”
Exceptional Hands-On Learning
Adelphi students have many opportunities to extend their learning beyond the classroom and forge valuable professional connections. Our students participate in internship opportunities at leading universities and national laboratories, including Brookhaven National Lab, where our students regularly hold internship positions investigating scientific puzzles like renewable fuels and subatomic particles.
We also facilitate opportunities with some of our Industrial Board members, including:
- American Institute of Physics Publishing
- Brookhaven National Lab
- Innoveering
- NYU Winthrop
- Photonics Industries International
- Thorlabs
Students will also have the opportunity to apply for the Horace McDonell Fellowship, a paid internship that allows students to do summer research with an Adelphi faculty mentor.
An Adelphi student and associate professor Matthew Wright, PhD solving physics equations together.
State-of-the-Art Technology
As a student in Adelphi’s Department of Physics, you’ll gain access to a range of state-of-the-art labs and equipment to advance your learning.
- Quantum and nonlinear optics laboratory
- Large holography and laser optics laboratory with a one-meter spectrometer
- Trace gas analysis research laboratory
- Light instructional laboratory
- Modern physics instructional laboratory
- Electronics instructional laboratory
- First-year physics computerized instructional laboratory
- Student computer lab
- Laser cooling and trapping laboratory
- Student computer lab
- Machine shop with a Bridgeport milling machine, lathe, drill presses, power saws and other machining equipment
- More than 10 optical tables
- Extensive computerized instructional experiments
- A variety of lasers, including argon ion, titanium:sapphire, various diode, dye, He:Ne and krypton ion
- Precision optics
- Ultra-high vacuum systems
Adelphi’s observatory, located on the roof of Blodgett Hall, features a Meade 14-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with a GPS alignment and tracking mechanism that can automatically align and focus on more than 145,000 celestial objects.
Program Info
Application Requirements
To apply for this program, submit the appropriate application requirements:
Transformative Educational Opportunities
All undergraduate students have the opportunity to apply for the following programs to expand their educational landscape:
- The Honors College – fostering intellectual perspectives and critical skills
- Levermore Global Scholars – preparing students to become global thinkers and leaders
- Study Abroad – providing opportunities to experience another culture and see the world from a new perspective
Awards & Recognition
Wall Street Journal/College Pulse
Adelphi is the highest-ranked university on Long Island in the 2025 Wall Street Journal/College Pulse Best Colleges. It also ranks #7 in New York, with outstanding scores for student outcomes including graduation rate and salary impact.
Ranked one of the best
Insight Into Diversity
Adelphi University has been named a 2024 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award—demonstrating an outstanding commitment to access, diversity and inclusion in STEM.
Our STEM Programs
U.S. News & World Report
Adelphi University has been named a Best College among National Universities for seven consecutive years. Adelphi remains the top-ranked private university on Long Island.
A Best College
Colleges of Distinction: Career Development
Adelphi University has been recognized as a Career Development college for the exceptional way in which our institution is equipping students with the skills to succeed in their lifelong career journey.
Expert Career Guidance
Princeton Review
The Princeton Review has ranked Adelphi University among the Best Northeastern Colleges based on academic offerings and career preparation for students, campus policies, initiatives and activities.
Best Northeastern College
Colleges of Distinction: Equity & Inclusion
Adelphi has been honored for initiatives to become an increasingly welcoming, inclusive community for students and faculty.
Top Ranked in Equity & Inclusion
Colleges of Distinction: International
Adelphi University has been given International Recognition by the Colleges of Distinction. This newest honor from the organization honors universities that “dedicate resources to supporting international students at every stage of their academic journey.”
Top Ranked in Global Belonging
Times Higher Education
Adelphi ranked in the top 4 percent of universities in the nation by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, receiving the highest scores in academic reputation and international outlook.
Global Recognition
Location
Blodgett Hall 002A
Location
Nexus Building First Floor
Hours
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