Department of Physics and Astronomy

Office: DH 538
Telephone: 408-924-5210
Email: physics-astronomy@sjsu.edu
Website: physics.sjsu.edu

Professors
Ramendra D. Bahuguna
Peter T. Beyersdorf, Chair
Alejandro L. Garcia
Aaron Romanowsky
Kenneth Wharton
Neil Switz
Ehsan Khatami
Cassandra Paul

Associate Professors
Ranko Heindl
Thomas Madura

Assistant Professors
Curtis Asplund
Kassahun Betre
Brianne Gutmann
Hilary Hurst
Gina Quan
Christopher Smallwood

Overview

At the core of all science, physics helps us understand chemical reactions, protein folding, the Earth’s interior, and the life cycle of stars. Among much else, physicists invented the semiconductor, the laser, and the electron microscope. They play key roles in the design and operation of spacecraft and in the development of electronic and optical instrumentation. The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers two MS degrees in Physics and Quantum Technology, and three undergraduate degrees: (1) a BS that prepares students for professional careers in applied physics or graduate study, and (2) a BA that combines a strong foundation in physics with electives that allow for a second area of concentration, such as computer science, chemistry, science education, or math and (3) a BA preparation for teaching which prepares students for teaching Physics in high-school or middle school and has them earn units towards their single-subject credential. Our faculty are experts in lasers and optics, computational physics, condensed matter, astrophysics, and physics education research. The department receives on average approximately $1.8 million annually in external funding for sponsored research.

Programs

Undergraduate Major(s)

Undergraduate Minor(s)

Master(s)

Courses

Astronomy

Physics