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Applied Physics Major: Mechanics Emphasis

Bachelor of Science

With an applied physics: mechanics degree, you’ll combine physics principles with the design experience of mechanical engineering as you prepare for graduate school or industry work.

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Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a B.S. in Applied Physics with a mechanics emphasis, you’ll receive comprehensive training in classical mechanics, fluid dynamics, and materials science. 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 a mechanics 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-integrated education
    Ground your applied 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.

  • 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. And you can pursue graduate pathways to earn a Bethel bachelor’s and a master’s degree in six years.

  • 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?

Throughout the B.S. in Applied Physics with a mechanics emphasis, you’ll develop specialized skills and knowledge essential for success in engineering, research, and technology.

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Classical mechanics

Master fundamental principles of classical mechanics, including Newtonian dynamics, kinematics, and celestial mechanics, applying mathematical techniques to analyze and solve complex mechanical systems.

Fluid dynamics

Explore the behavior of fluids and gases in motion, studying topics such as Bernoulli’s principle, fluid flow, turbulence, and aerodynamics, and applying theoretical concepts to analyze and design fluid-based systems.

Materials science

Learn about the structure, properties, and behavior of materials, including metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites, and gain practical experience in materials characterization techniques such as microscopy, spectroscopy, and mechanical testing.

Experimental physics

Gain hands-on experience in experimental physics through laboratory courses and research projects, developing skills in measurement, data analysis, and scientific inquiry, and applying experimental techniques to investigate physical phenomena and validate theoretical models.

Problem-solving and critical thinking

Cultivate advanced problem-solving and critical thinking skills, applying theoretical principles and mathematical techniques to analyze, model, and optimize mechanical systems and processes.

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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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Internships and externships

Gain practical experience and academic credit through internships and externships at engineering firms, research laboratories, and manufacturing companies, gaining real-world experience and networking opportunities in the field.

Research with faculty

Collaborate with faculty mentors on research projects in experimental physics, mechanical design, and materials science, gaining valuable experience in scientific inquiry and laboratory techniques.

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.

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Real-world impact

What can I do with an applied physics degree?

Upon completing the B.S. in Applied Physics with a mechanics emphasis, you'll be well-prepared for graduate school and for careers in engineering, research, and technology.

Mechanical engineering

Design and develop mechanical systems and components for a wide range of applications, including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and consumer products.

Materials engineering

Study the structure, properties, and behavior of materials, developing new materials and improving existing ones for applications in engineering, construction, and manufacturing.

Fluid dynamics

Analyze fluid flow and heat transfer phenomena in various engineering systems, designing and optimizing fluid-based systems for applications in aerospace, energy, and environmental engineering.

Research science

Conduct research in academia, industry, or government labs, exploring fundamental principles of classical mechanics, fluid dynamics, and materials science, and making significant contributions to scientific knowledge and innovation.

Engineering consulting

Provide expertise and guidance to engineering firms, government agencies, and research organizations on mechanical design, materials selection, and fluid dynamics analysis, helping to solve complex engineering challenges and optimize system performance.

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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. Professors are accessible between classes, and you’ll often find fellow students gathered or studying nearby.

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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