Join us in asking and exploring answers to the age-old question, “Why does it work?”
As a physics major or minor, you’ll find that you’re able to contribute to our research programs right from the beginning. Even before you enroll as a physics student, there are opportunities for you to start taking part in our research programs. Once you’re a student in our courses, we listen to what you want to learn, designing our elective options based on your interests.
Explore how the world works
Physics is an investigative science testing theory against experimental measurements.
Discover something new
Learning through experimenting and collaborative research is a hallmark of our department — and of Hope College. It’s important for our students to learn directly alongside faculty members as research apprentices. Not only will you be learning something new, but you’ll be contributing directly to the field. View our blog for more information about our research groups.
Learn from the best
Each faculty member's research program is supported by external grants they've earned through competative programs. We currently have active awards totalling over $1 million. We’ve been funded by many prestigious, national groups, including:
- The National Science Foundation
- Research Corporation for Science Advancement
- The Howard Hughes Medical Institute
- NASA
- The Pew Foundation
- The Hope College endowment
For detailed information, view our faculty pages.
Recent blog posts
-
Summer Research Program 2019
Posted by Jennifer HamptonApply online at https://sharp.hope.edu. Choose from a range of externally funded research projects: ...
Read More -
Students Meet Nobel Laureate at NASA
Posted by Jennifer HamptonIt’s not every day that you get to meet a Nobel Laureate. But three physics students working w...
Read More -
Summer Research Program 2018
Posted by Jennifer HamptonApply online at https://sharp.hope.edu. Choose from a range of externally funded research projects: ...
Read More -
Higher Education Research Experiences (HERE) Program at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)
Posted by Catherine MaderOpportunities for qualified students, alumni, and faculty to participate in hands-on research in a r...
Read More -
The Grit, The Disparities and Their Stories
Posted by Catherine MaderJoin the Hope Women in Science and Engineering club members for a panel discussion featuring 5 women...
Read More -
“Talking” Electrons: Does It Happen In Collisions Of Ions With Atoms?
Posted by Catherine MaderJohn Tanis PhD, Physics Department, Western Michigan University Friday, Nov 3 at 3 pm Can electrons ...
Read More
We have a proven formula for success
This formula combines rigorous classroom work and true hands-on research. It combines caring, available instructors with experienced research mentors.
Hope by the Numbers
- 2.7 millionVolts
Our laboratory houses the 2.7 million volt Van de Graaf particle accelerator.
Learn more - 80%Graduate School
Our department sends students to graduate school in physics, materials science, medical physics and medicine. Those who don’t pursue further education often succeed in careers in national and industrial labs, business and secondary education.
- $1 millionRecent Grants
Our faculty has received over $1 million in recent grants toward their research.
Find research opportunities - $70kMedian Salary
The median salary for physicists with bachelor’s degrees is $70,000, and can increase by 41% for physicists with graduate degrees.
Imagine life after Hope