Department of Physics and Astronomy

Office: Science Building 148

Telephone: 408-924-5210

Email: physics-astronomy@sjsu.edu

Website: physics.sjsu.edu

Professors

Ramendra D. Bahuguna
Alejandro L. Garcia
Monika E. Kress, Chair
Kenneth Wharton

Associate Professors

Peter T. Beyersdorf
Ranko Heindl
Ehsan Khatami
Cassandra Paul
Aaron Romanowsky
Neil Switz

Assistant Professors

Curtis Asplund
Kassahun Betre
Hilary Hurst
Thomas Madura
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 an MS degree in physics and two 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. 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