B.S. in Physics with Astrophysics focus

If you pursue the B.S. in Physics with an Astrophysics focus at Florida State University, you’ll have access to some of the nation’s most advanced scientific facilities, supporting hands-on research and technical skill development in both physics and astrophysics.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of specific facilities and experiential learning:

• National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (MagLab): Located on the FSU campus, MagLab is the largest and highest-powered magnet laboratory in the world, offering unique opportunities for research in astrophysics, condensed matter, and materials science. It features world-record magnets, including a 45 Tesla hybrid magnet and a 41.4 Tesla resistive magnet, and supports experiments in high magnetic fields, NMR spectroscopy, and geochemistry. More than 1,800 researchers use MagLab’s facilities annually, and undergraduates can engage in experimental and computational projects here.

• John D. Fox Superconducting Linear Accelerator Laboratory: This NSF-funded facility, also on campus, is dedicated to nuclear physics and nuclear astrophysics research. It is part of the Association for Research with University Nuclear Accelerators (ARUNA) and supports both experimental and theoretical projects at the intersection of nuclear science and astrophysics.

• Swain Hall Physics Laboratories: Home to experimental labs for undergraduate and faculty research, including electronics, optics, and measurement equipment, integral for developing technical skills in astrophysics and physics coursework.

• Faculty-Led Research Groups: Work with internationally recognised faculty in astrophysics, nuclear physics, and related fields, often using data from national and international observatories and collaborating on projects funded by the Department of Energy and National Science Foundation.

• Student Research and Mentorship: Opportunities for undergraduate research, mentorship, and presentations at national conferences, all supported by FSU’s robust research infrastructure.

Graduates of Florida State University’s B.S. in Physics with Astrophysics focus are ready for impactful careers in programming, engineering, secondary education, and technical management. You’ll find FSU alumni thriving in research labs, tech companies, and educational settings, leveraging their strong analytical and scientific skills to solve complex problems and lead teams. Here’s how FSU will help you launch your future:

• FSU Career Centre Services: The Career Centre provides personalised career design tools, resume workshops, and one-on-one advising tailored to physics and astrophysics majors. You’ll have access to resources that help you identify your strengths, explore career options, and connect with employers in science and technology fields. The centre also highlights key transferable skills—like critical thinking, scientific software proficiency, and data analysis—that are highly sought after by employers.

• Employment Outcomes: A B.S. in Physics with Astrophysics from FSU opens doors to a lifetime of relevance in a job market that values intellectual flexibility and technological mastery. Typical job roles include programming, engineering, teaching at the secondary level, and management in technical fields.

• University–Industry Partnerships: The program’s strong ties to research labs and technical organisations mean you’ll benefit from internships, undergraduate research projects, and networking with professionals in both academia and industry.

• Long-term Accreditation Value: FSU’s physics and astrophysics program is fully accredited and nationally respected, ensuring your degree is recognised by employers and graduate schools everywhere.

• Graduation Outcomes: Many FSU graduates continue into top graduate programs in physics, astrophysics, and related scientific fields, or move quickly into impactful careers in education, research, and technical sectors.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your B.S. in Physics with Astrophysics focus at FSU, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue a master’s in physics, astronomy, or astrophysics, setting you up for advanced research, university teaching, or technical leadership roles at observatories, research institutions, and space agencies.