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Undergraduate Programs & Minors

Physics & Physical Oceanography

The subject matter of physics is the physical universe, and the primary reason for studying physics is to gain a unifying understanding of the world around us.

This is accomplished through the interplay of experiment and theory that constitutes the scientific method. Beyond the purely intellectual pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, there is the vast use of discovered laws of nature for the purpose of improving our material well-being.

Just look around you. Innovations like computers, high-definition television, nuclear power, lasers, communications satellites, ultrasonic scanners, recombinant DNA, magnetic resonance imaging in medicine and high-temperature superconductivity are revolutionizing the world in which we live.

Physicists are at the very center of the expansion of knowledge and technology, and career opportunities have never been better!

Undergraduate Programs

Physics, B.A. Choose to focus on general physics, environmental physics, engineering physics, computational physics or physical oceanography. Learn More
Physics, B.S. Our program prepares undergraduate students to study physics in graduate school. This degree is the common path through physics knowledge that is found at universities around the country. Read More
Coastal Engineering, B.S. You will have the opportunity for extensive field research in the area's waterways and coastal habitats under the direction of faculty scholars and access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the UNCW Center for Marine Science. Get Involved

Undergraduate Minors and 3+2 Program

Physics, Minor A minor in physics complements many other science-related degrees. Explore
Physical Oceanography, Minor Take a deep dive into fluid mechanics, ocean circulation systems, and coastal and estuarine systems. Discover
3 + 2 Physics & Electrical Engineering Program A 3+2 program offers you the opportunity to double major, obtaining a degree in a science major from UNCW in approximately three years and an engineering degree at NC State in the final two years of study. Get Details

Contact Us

Department of Physics and Physical Oceanography

Phone: 910.962.3462
Fax: 910.962.7014

DeLoach Hall 210
601 S. College Road
Wilmington, NC 28403