物理学家研究我们周围的世界，以发现控制自然界的基本原理或定律。作为物理学家，您可以：试图了解宇宙的起源和物质的最终结构，研究材料结构的基本原理，以便设计用​​于电子显示器的更快的计算机芯片或改进的液晶，动手工作。实验室课程，研究基于激光的光学，学习物理科学的电子仪器（包括计算机数据采集和分析），并使用现代化的实验室设备（例如可以看到单个原子的扫描隧道显微镜），获得在实验室工作的理论和实验背景诸如天体物理学，生物物理学，化学物理学，计算机科学，数学物理学和工程学等领域。科学技术的发展非常迅速，宾夕法尼亚州立
This major provides a sound program of technical and general education for students planning a career in physics and related fields.<br>The General option provides broad coverage with the most physics and mathematics course requirements and is useful for students intending to pursue graduate study in Physics or similar disciplines.<br>The Medical and Electronics options incorporate coursework in support of the application of physics and mathematics in various life-science or engineering related fields.<br>A Computation option provides background in the application of physical principles and mathematical methods in the solution of scientific problems, simulations, or visualizations using computer and numerical techniques.<br>The Nanotechnology/Material Science option provides students with background in the understanding of condensed matter physics at either the nano- or micro/macro- levels.<br>Physicists study natural phenomena in the universe, from the smallest length scales to the largest in the cosmos, to discover the basic principles or laws which govern the physical world. Knowledge of physics is crucial to truly understanding the world around us, the world inside us, and the world beyond us. This degree will provide students with the fundamental conceptual, mathematical, computational, and experimental tools that are needed to attack the scientific and technological problems of today and in the future.