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Physics Major (B.A.)

Bachelor of Arts

With a B.A. in Physics, you’ll learn the fundamental principles of physics while enjoying the flexibility to tailor your education to your interests and career goals.

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Become who you’re meant to be. At Bethel, you’ll receive a comprehensive education in physics while enjoying the flexibility to pursue double majors, minors, or interdisciplinary studies. The B.A. requires fewer courses than the B.S., so you can develop an individualized approach to your education that meets your goals (the B.S. is a more intensive option if you plan to pursue graduate school or a career in research). No matter your plan, you’ll be prepared to pursue many different meaningful careers and graduate school.

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Why should I study physics at Bethel?

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.

  • Research with faculty
    Along with taking a two-course sequence doing research with faculty, you can also apply to work full-time for 10 weeks on research with our faculty in our labs, getting paid with funds from grants from NASA and NSF.

  • State of the art research labs
    You’ll have access to 15 different research labs for class and personal research projects, roughly 12,000 square feet. More than half of that space is devoted to upper-level labs using equipment found in industry.

  • 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 success rate in getting into medical programs and pursuing vibrant careers.

  • Interdisciplinary studies
    The B.A. requires fewer courses than the B.S., so you can develop an individualized approach to your education. This allows you to double major with other engineering fields or even the humanities, or add a minor. 

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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 physics major, you’ll cultivate a diverse set of skills essential for success in the field of physics and beyond.

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Research skills

Gain hands-on experience in conducting scientific research, including experimental design, data collection, and analysis.

Quantitative analysis

Develop proficiency in mathematical and statistical methods for analyzing physical phenomena and solving complex problems.

Critical thinking

Learn to think critically and analytically, evaluating scientific evidence and developing logical arguments.

Communication skills

Enhance your ability to communicate scientific concepts effectively through oral presentations, technical writing, and visual aids.

Interdisciplinary perspective

Explore connections between physics and other disciplines, fostering creativity and innovation in your approach to scientific inquiry.

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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. As a student in the physics program, you'll engage in hands-on learning experiences that prepare you for a successful career in physics and beyond. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.

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Hands-on academic projects and research

Participate in nationally competitive research internships at prestigious institutions for academic credit or to earn income. You’ll also publish papers and present findings at local and national conferences.

Professional development

Bethel alumni are also involved in undergraduate classes and regular visitors to campus, so you'll graduate with a built-in network of successful local scientists who model Christ-centered excellence in the field.

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Real-world impact

What can I do with a physics degree?

Upon completing the B.A. in Physics program, you'll be equipped for diverse career opportunities in the field of physics and beyond. Some students go on to grad school while others start careers at top companies like 3M, Medtronic, Accenture, Honeywell, and more.

Research

Conduct scientific research in academia, government laboratories, or private industry, contributing to advancements in knowledge and technology.

Data analysis

Analyze large datasets to extract meaningful insights and inform decision-making processes in fields such as finance, healthcare, or environmental science.

Engineering

Apply your physics background to pursue careers in various engineering fields, such as electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or aerospace engineering.

Education

Teach physics at the high school or community college level, inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators.

Medical physics

Specialize in medical physics, using physics principles to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic techniques in healthcare settings.

Graduate studies

Pursue advanced degrees in physics, engineering, mathematics, computer science, or other related fields, preparing for leadership roles in academia, industry, or research.

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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.

Schedule a visit

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

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Wayne Raman-Nair

Professor of Physics and Engineering

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Keith Stein

Keith Stein

Professor of Physics

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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

Bio >

Richard Peterson

Richard Peterson

University Professor of Physics Emeritus

Bio >

$84,983

average salary for physics alumni 10 years after graduation

- U.S. Census Bureau

73

student co-authors on papers published since 2016

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

Apply now

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.

Explore the full lists:

Majors and minors Preprofessional programs Endorsements