What is Physics?

If you love asking big questions and solving complex problems, a major in physics is perfect for you. Study how matter, energy, space, and time behave — using math, experimentation, and creative thinking to make sense of the world around you. You'll explore electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, relativity, cosmology, and high-energy phenomena, while building skills in data analysis, critical thinking, and modeling. Graduates pursue physics jobs in research, engineering, technology, education, and government, including roles at NASA, high-tech industries, and emerging fields. LSU offers concentrations in Physics, Astronomy, Medical Physics, Physics Second Discipline, and Physics with Secondary Education.

Program Highlights
Undergraduate Research LSU Physics secures more than $8 million in federal research funding each year, giving every undergrad access to well-supported labs, advanced equipment, and nationally competitive research opportunities.
Science Residential College Live and learn with your peers in a smaller network within the larger campus, offering academic enhancement programs, classes in your residence hall, and corporate sponsored events introducing you to internships and cooperative education programs.
Research Powerhouses Students work with major research sites including the Center for Advanced Microstructures and Devices, Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory, and Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center.
Personalized Experience Small class sizes and a strong faculty-to-physics-major ratio make it easier to connect with professors, join a research group, and receive personalized academic and career guidance.

What You Can Do

An LSU degree opens doors to a wide range of career paths and professional opportunities. With a strong academic foundation, real-world learning, and support from a powerful alumni network, you’ll graduate prepared for success in today’s competitive job market. Whether you’re planning to work in a corporate setting, nonprofit organization, government agency, creative industry, or research lab, LSU equips you with the in-demand skills and hands-on experience employers value most.

Potential Careers

Astrophysicist
Astronomer
Cosmologist
Grades 6-12 Teacher
Medical Physicist 
Researcher
Professor
School Administrator 
Physicist

Workplace Settings

Research Laboratories
Hospitals & Healthcare Facilities
Aerospace & Defense Organizations
Technology & Engineering Companies
Government Agencies 
National Laboratories
Universities & Educational Institutions
Data Analytics & Consulting Firms
Energy & Advanced Manufacturing Industries

What Physics Looks like

LSU Students Conduct Research and Design for New Lunar-Based Telescope

LSU Featured Tiger, Nigel Payne

Building Skills
Analytical Reasoning Use math and logic to break down complex systems and explain how the physical world works.
Experimental Design Design experiments, collect measurements, and interpret real data using scientific tools.
Computational Modeling Use coding, simulations, and data analysis to model physical systems and predict outcomes.
Advanced Problem-Solving Tackle theoretical and technical challenges found in research, engineering, and industry.
Advance your Career
Post-graduate education
LSU offers competitively ranked post-graduate programs designed to help you innovate and lead in your field. Engage in advanced coursework, contribute to impactful research, and learn from expert faculty who are solving real-world challenges across Louisiana and beyond. Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise, pivot into a new industry, or accelerate your career, LSU’s graduate programs open the door to a world of opportunity.
Apply Today!