In the physics major at UNC Asheville, you study the laws that make the world go around, including time, space, force, matter, motion, and energy.
Why Study Physics at UNC Asheville?
Close-Knit, Welcoming Environment
Physics majors encounter the warmth of a close-knit community of learners and educators. They forge lasting connections with fellow students and faculty members, creating an environment conducive to academic success. Whether hanging out in the physics study lounge or with members of our award-winning chapter of the National Physics Honor Society, Sigma Pi Sigma, our students find it easy to feel at home.
Student Spotlight
Ava Tomkins, Phoebe Gittis, and Josh Ward completed undergraduate research at Yerkes Observatory, the birthplace of modern cosmology and home to the largest refracting telescope in the world.
“I have known that I wanted to work in space exploration for a long time, so I hope to one day either be a driving force in space exploration or to even be in space.”
Halle Theriault, Class of ’24
Outside the Classroom
At UNC Asheville, discover boundless opportunities to learn outside the classroom and immerse yourself in holistic learning experiences across the campus community. Our physics bachelor’s degree program encourages you to explore real-world applications, fostering a well-rounded education.
Top-Notch Facilities
The Department of Physics and Astronomy boasts state-of-the-art lab facilities in modern physics, optics, lasers, nuclear physics, molecular physics, and electronics, in addition to the awe-inspiring Lookout Observatory. As part of their upper-level lab courses, all physics majors get a chance to showcase their skills and knowledge by delivering captivating presentations to the Department.
Sigma Pi Sigma
Sigma Pi Sigma (SPS) regularly holds induction ceremonies to honor students who meet the level of achievement required to join the society. Our UNC Asheville SPS Chapter has won an annual SPS award for several years. Typically, the National SPS Office awards only 20 to 30 chapters out of the over 700 nationwide annually.
Society of Physics Students
Affiliated with the National Society of Physics Students Council, the UNC Asheville Society of Physics Students focuses on advancing and growing majors in physics, astronomy, and other STEAM-based degrees.
In this group, we keep members involved in community-based activities with local schools and here on campus. We teach introductory physics to students in the local area, actively participate in the NC Science Festival, and host various fun activities throughout the year. Additionally, we keep our members up-to-date on the latest exclusive scholarships and internships offered through SPS National and STEM-based programs in North Carolina.
We meet on the first Tuesday of each month from 12-1 p.m. in RRO119—we encourage any student interested in STEAM to join!
Faculty
Discover the brilliance behind our Bachelor of Science in Physics degree program. Our esteemed faculty bring a wealth of expertise, using their passion and dedication to guide students on their academic journey. Offering daily one-on-one guidance, our full-time faculty members play an integral role in shaping the supportive and engaging learning environment that enables physics majors to thrive.
Judy Beck
Senior Lecturer
| Office: 124A Rhoades/Robinson Hall |
| Phone: (828) 251-6049 |
| Email: jbeck@unca.edu |
Christian Kerpal, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
| Office: 124E Rhoades/Robinson Hall |
| Phone: (828) 251-6047 |
| Email: ckerpal@unca.edu |
Britt Lundgren, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
| Office: 117 Rhoades/Robinson Hall |
| Phone: (828)-255-7130 |
| Email: blundgre@unca.edu |
Lucian Undreiu, Ph.D.
Lecturer
| Office: 124C Rhoades/Robinson Hall |
| Phone: (828) 251-6269 |
| Email: dnichol1@unca.edu |
David Wake, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor and Lookout Observatory Director
| Office: 107 Rhoades/Robinson Hall |
| Phone: (828) 232-5036 |
| Email: dwake@unca.edu |
Physics Degree Careers & Outcomes
Physics majors acquire a range of abilities that make them versatile and well-suited for various career paths. Their analytical skills, mathematical proficiency, adaptability, and capacity for problem-solving enable them to pursue careers in research and development, engineering, data science and analysis, tech and IT, academia, and beyond.
While sufficiently prepared to enter the workforce upon graduation, many UNC Asheville students seek graduate education at the master’s or doctoral level. Our graduates have achieved offers of acceptance to renowned institutions across the nation, including the University of Central Florida, MIT, The University of Arizona, Johns Hopkins, The University of Utah, the University of South Carolina, and more.
Related Programs
Transform Ideas Into Innovation as a Physics Major at UNC Asheville
When you enroll in the Bachelor of Science in Physics degree program, you embark on a journey beyond textbooks and equations and explore the fundamental principles that govern our universe. You benefit from expert faculty mentorship as you delve into our rigorous, customizable curriculum. At UNC Asheville, you engage in groundbreaking projects, collaborate with peers, and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge.
Contact Us
| Department of Physics and Astronomy |
| Phone: 828.251.5133 |
| Email: jperkins@unca.edu |
