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Physics

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Study Physics at Fordham

About the physics major

At Fordham, physics is more than just the study of how energy interacts with matter. It's an opportunity to conduct research that matters.

Explore the very nature of the universe as a physics major. Gain the technical and mathematical skills needed to tackle some of the biggest questions in physics through hands-on labs and in small classes. Dive into research projects alongside expert faculty mentors in areas like applied optics, nanoelectric device modeling, and medical physics. And apply your knowledge for the greater good, in fields from medicine to energy conservation.

Our graduates go on to …

  • prestigious PhD programs
  • research laboratories
  • careers in engineering, biotechnology, medical physics, and more

Visit the physics and engineering physics department page

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Physics program profile

  • Rose Hill CampusMajor
    Rose Hill
  • Rose Hill CampusMinor
    Rose Hill

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Physics with impact

Jackson Saunders, a Fordham senior and physics major conducting cutting-edge summer research into acoustics

Acoustics Research Fuels Passion                    

With support from a Fordham grant, Jackson Saunders conducted cutting-edge acoustics research that could change the ways sounds are directed and controlled. Learn about the path that led him to this project.

Stephen Holler inspects the Guralp DM24 CMG3T, which measures seismic activity from the William Spain Seismic Observatory's underground vault.

Fordham’s Seismic Station Turns 100                    

Our campus is home to New York City’s oldest seismic observatory. Discover its history and the vital role it plays in detecting temblors around the world.

Martin Sanzari

Your Physics Professor’s Desk                    

Professor Martin Sanzari's desk is surrounded by science. Take a look inside his office to explore everything from his Einstein collection to a postcard from a graduate working at the South Pole.

Camelia Prodan, Ph.D.

STEM’s Future at Fordham                    

Professor Camelia Prodan's research focuses on cancer research and engineering new materials, two areas that she says might seem disconnected but are rooted in the same science: physics.

Two students pose in a lab

Using Tiny Particles to Solve Big Challenges                    

Saba Mumladze and Azhar Ahmed are exploring how photons—tiny particles of light and electromagnetic energy—could be used in everything from testing the temperature inside hybrid rocket engines to powering AI data centers

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Physics Program FAQ

  • Beyond your fundamental physics courses, you might dive into areas ranging from engineering to energy production with courses like Quantum Mechanics and Thermo and Stat Physics. You can even take Science Fiction Physics, where you’ll study the viability of sci-fi scenarios in stories.

  • Research is at the center of our program. Our facilities include a solid state physics lab, a soft condensed matter lab, an instrument and model shop, and our own historic seismic station, to name a few. Students often bring their own innovative ideas into the lab to find solutions, such as testing out hybrid rocket engines or manufacturing new speaker system. And our faculty mentors are here to help you beyond the lab, too. Students have presented their work for the American Physical Society and won prestigious awards and competitions.

  • Fordham’s location in New York City will provide you with unparalleled access to internships, research collaborations, and career pathways through our connections with hospitals, research institutes, and industry partners like Montefiore Medical Center and Memorial Sloan Kettering.

    You’ll also have the opportunity to join our initiative Project FRESH Air, where you’ll work with local middle and high schoolers to combat climate change and generate new air quality data in communities throughout NYC.

  • You’ll be prepared for advanced graduate studies in physics, as well as careers in technology, mechanics, astrophysics, engineering, and medicine.

  • AI is a tool that helps scientists solve complex problems faster, creating a need for experts who understand both physics and data science. At Fordham, you’ll be able to use AI to advance your own research and pair your physics classes with courses in computer science and biochemistry, preparing you for high-growth roles in areas like AI-driven systems management, predictive technology, materials science, and dark matter mapping.

    You’ll also be able to earn credentials and paid micro-internships through IBM SkillsBuild’s Getting Started with AI course. All Fordham students and graduates have access to AI training through RamConnect, the University’s alumni and experiential learning platform.

    Above all, you’ll learn skills that can’t be replaced by AI, such as critical thinking, problem solving, and experimentation.

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