If you want to understand the forces of nature — and how to use that knowledge to solve problems —consider majoring in the related fields of engineering or physics.
Our faculty advisors can help you decide which career path is best for you. We offer an Engineering (Bachelor of Science) program, plus Bachelor of Arts programs in engineering physics, physics or teaching physics.
The faculty are experts in many disciplines, including mechanical engineering, environmental engineering, pulsed laser systems, astronomy, nuclear physics, quantum mechanics and teaching physics.
They take the time to get to know our students and help them identify their own passions. This leads to successful employment or acceptance to graduate school. Augustana students use human-centered design, solve important problems in their discipline, or inspire students in high school physics classes.
You can major or minor in physics or major in teaching physics in the secondary schools. The full-time physics faculty all hold a Ph.D., and teach all laboratory sessions as well as courses.
If you are interested in combining the applied side of physics and engineering, you can choose a major in engineering physics with a chemical, electrical or mechanical track.
The college offers an innovative Engineering (Bachelor of Science) program at a liberal arts institution, with focuses in mechanical, civil, and environmental and sustainability engineering.
This program is multidisciplinary so students will be exposed to physics, mathematics and engineering, while incorporating ethics, humanities and social sciences.
With a minor in astronomy, you can be part of a 50-plus-year history of exploring space at a college known for strong science programs with a liberal arts foundation, and a culture of support for research and adventure.
Research and adventure are at the heart of study in astronomy. At Augustana, students minoring in astronomy learn using resources that link our campus to the American west, and to the far reaches of space.
The Augustana Physics and Engineering Society (APES) is an active student group; it often wins the annual cardboard boat regatta.
The John Deere Planetarium and Carl Gamble Observatory features a Celestron C14 computer-driven 14-inch reflector telescope. Stargazing, educational programs and planet viewing are offered to the community as well as campus.
Disciplinary knowledge
Gain a deep understanding of your subject and how it connects to other subjects.
Quantitative literacy
Interpret, represent and summarize information. Use math and statistics to solve problems.
Critical thinking and information literacy
Judge and construct arguments, raise questions and define problems. Make a conclusion based on evidence.
Creative thinking
Combine ideas to create something new. Use imaginative ways of solving problems.
Collaborative leadership
Make decisions and act for the good of the community as a group.
At Augustana College, summer isn't just a break from classes — it's a perfect time for cutting-edge research and academic exploration.
The new NSF grant builds on the success of the MoNA Collaboration to involve undergraduate students in research over the years, resulting in numerous publications and presentations by students.
Augustana physics faculty are finding ways to involve students in quantum research and discovery, while moving ahead with their own research.
