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Applied Physics Major: Electronics Emphasis

Bachelor of Science

With an applied physics: electronics degree, you'll gain the skills and knowledge to thrive in the rapidly evolving field of electronics engineering.

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Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a B.S. in Applied Physics with an electronics emphasis, you’ll bridge the gap between the traditional physicist and the traditional electrical engineer, gaining specialized knowledge to thrive in the evolving field of electronics engineering. You’ll be equipped for high-technology employment, interdisciplinary research, and graduate education in applied science and engineering.

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Why should I study applied physics with an electronics emphasis?

Here, you’ll find a Christ-centered learning community where you belong. Your education will center in the Department of Physics and Engineering, where you’ll receive personalized mentorship and engage in hands-on learning experiences. And you’ll find unique options and pathways to match your graduate school and career goals.

  • Faith-fueled learning
    Ground your physics studies in a Christ-centered environment, preparing you to serve with purpose and integrity in your future career. And your professors will model how to be excellent scientists and faithful Christians.

  • Comprehensive coursework
    Our program bridges the gap between physics and electrical engineering, providing you with a solid foundation in both disciplines. From semiconductor physics to circuit design, you'll explore a wide range of topics relevant to electronics engineering.

  • Strong success in graduate and medical schools
    You’ll be well-equipped to pursue careers that require medical or graduate degrees. And our graduates have a longstanding, excellent success rate in getting into medical programs and pursuing vibrant careers.

  • A flexible, liberal arts foundation
    If you desire a strong liberal arts and science background, you can pursue engineering through one of Bethel's excellent standalone engineering programs or the B.A./B.S. Dual-Degree Engineering program. The dual degree—or “3-2”—program allows students to spend three years taking foundational courses in Bethel’s Christ-centered community before transferring to another university to spend two years working in specialty engineering fields beyond what Bethel offers. 

  • Adaptable courses
    For your first two years, all majors (physics, applied physics, and engineering) start with the same core technical courses, helping you to experience each field and decide which suits you best.

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Connect with a counselor

They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.

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Courses and skills

What skills will I develop?

Through the B.S. in Applied Physics with an electronics emphasis, you’ll cultivate a diverse skill set essential for success in the field of electronics engineering.

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Theoretical understanding

Master fundamental concepts in physics and electronics, including semiconductor physics, electromagnetism, and circuit theory.

Practical skills

Gain hands-on experience in designing, building, and testing electronic systems through laboratory experiments and research projects.

Analytical abilities

Develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills to tackle complex engineering challenges in technology and research.

Communication and teamwork

Collaborate with peers and faculty on projects, enhancing your teamwork and communication skills essential for professional success.

Industry readiness

Acquire industry-relevant skills and knowledge to pursue diverse career opportunities in electronics engineering, research, and development.

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Academic plans

Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.

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Learning opportunities

What experiences will I have?

Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you’ll find numerous opportunities to get involved, apply what you’ve learned, and gain experience. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.

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Hands-on projects

You’ll have the opportunity to participate in nationally competitive research internships at prestigious institutions around the world for academic credit or to earn income. You’ll also publish papers, present findings at local and national conferences.

State of the art research labs

You’ll have access to 15 different research labs for class and personal research projects, roughly 12,000 sq. ft., more than half devoted to upper-level labs using equipment found in industry, other labs entirely to research and design work.

Clubs and travel

Participate in multiple student clubs such as: High-Power Rocket Team, Society of Physics Students, and study abroad opportunities including locations in Switzerland and at Oxford University in England.

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Real-world impact

What can I do with an applied physics degree?

Graduates of the applied physics major with an emphasis in electronics are equipped with the skills and knowledge to pursue diverse career paths and graduate school opportunities.

Electronics engineering

Design and develop electronic systems and devices for various industries, including telecommunications, consumer electronics, and aerospace.

Embedded systems engineering

Create embedded systems for applications such as IoT devices, robotics, and automotive electronics.

Semiconductor process engineering

Work in semiconductor fabrication facilities to develop and optimize manufacturing processes for semiconductor devices.

Research science

Conduct research in electronics, materials science, or applied physics in academic institutions, government labs, or private research organizations.

Product development

Lead product development efforts for electronics companies, bringing innovative products from concept to market.

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Start your journey

Explore Bethel for yourself

Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.

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Faculty mentors

Meet your professors

You’ll learn alongside faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll know you by name and invest in your success.

Department of Physics & Engineering


Location

Barnes Academic Center (BAC) 244

Contact

Brian Beecken

Brian Beecken

Brian Beecken

Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Alyssa Hamre Kontak

Alyssa Hamre Kontak

Assistant Professor of Physics

Bio >

Julie Hogan

Julie Hogan

Associate Professor of Physics

Bio >

Nathan Lindquist

Nathan Lindquist

Professor of Physics

Bio >

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Wayne Raman-Nair

Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Keith Stein

Keith Stein

Professor of Physics

Bio >

Shensheng Tang

Shensheng Tang

Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Nathan Lemke

Nathan Lemke

Adjunct Associate Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

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Jason Stroup

Adjunct Instructor of Physics and Engineering

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Thomas Greenlee

Thomas Greenlee

Professor of Physics Emeritus

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Richard Peterson

Richard Peterson

University Professor of Physics Emeritus

Bio >

15

specialized lab and design spaces in the department

35

paid summer internships in 2018

Student Support

Your support team

At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.

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Career coaching and preparation

A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.

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Academic advising

No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.

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Tutoring and academic support

The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.

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Faith formation

As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.

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Accessible education

Tuition and financial aid

We want you to understand from the beginning what a Bethel education costs. That’s why we made it simple. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences will be $25,990—down from $44,050. This more accurately reflects what you can expect to pay, empowering you to make informed decisions and become who you're meant to be.

Estimate your cost today

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Become A Bethel Student

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You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.

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Find your fit

Explore related programs

Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.

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