As fundamental sciences, physics and astronomy continue to be driving intellectual forces in expanding our understanding of the universe, in discovering the scientific basis for new technologies, and in applying these technologies to research. In keeping with this crucial role, the Department of Physics and Astronomy offers courses dealing with both the cultural and intellectual aspects of the disciplines, a broadly based major program flexible enough to serve as preparation for graduate study in physics, applied physics, medical physics, astronomy or astrophysics, professional study in another area, or technical employment, and minor programs for students desiring to combine physics or astronomy with other majors. An honors program is available for qualified departmental majors.
A distinguishing feature of the Vanderbilt undergraduate curriculum is the close coupling between teaching and research. At Vanderbilt, active research groups are studying the physics of elementary particles; nuclear structure and heavy-ion reactions; nonlinear interactions of lasers with materials at ultrafast time scales; the behavior of electrons, atoms, molecules, and photons near surfaces; the electric and magnetic properties of living systems; the structure and dynamics of biopolymers; young stars; and cosmology. All professors are engaged in research, and undergraduate students can participate in this research informally or through independent study or summer work.
The Society of Physics Students arranges informal discussions.