This degree program is one of the best-equipped, compelling, and most active physics programs of any undergraduate institution in the nation. Our program is extremely flexible with 13 hours of general elective along with 18 hours of support field electives.
Program Benefits
In addition to outstanding facilities and academic support, the Tarleton State University Physics Program also offers:
Unique research opportunities
Unique physics and nuclear engineering courses
Freshman academic scholarships of up to $9,000 a year
This facility is specific to our program, and serves as a means of research for students; it is also one of only six undergraduate tandem facilities in the United States. Some of our previous students have been selected for summer Research Experience for Undergrads (REU) programs at institutions such as:
California Institute of Technology
University of North Texas
Texas Christian University
Dr. Marble's accelerator group performs a wide range of research over topics such as basic ion-atom collision and the use of nuclear techniques for analyzing electronics.
Observatory
Our Astronomy Education and Research program at Tarleton provide students with the opportunity to complete significant astronomical research using a state-of-the-art 32" telescope. The Tarleton State University observatory is located on Hunewell Ranch, which is East of Stephenville. It features a Ritchey-Chretien reflecting telescope that was designed by Astronomical Consultants and Equipment of Tucson, AZ. The computer-controlled and high-resolution CCD imaging system ensures the accurate capture of images for both research or projection.
Society of Physics Students
The Society of Physics Students (SPS) is a national organization that gives students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, meet like-minded peers, and expand their knowledge of physics and related subjects. The Tarleton State University SPS chapter has been recognized for excellence on several occasions, and includes Sigma Pi Sigma, which is a National Physics Honor Society chapter that honors students who achieve academic distinction through their coursework.
Electron Microscopy Lab
This lab is a multi-user, interdisciplinary facility that supports student and faculty research across the Tarleton campus. The lab's equipment includes a computer-controlled JEOL scanning electron microscope (SEM) with a 3.5 nanometer resolution. Researchers can combine lab capabilities with additional analysis tools or at the Texas A&M Agricultural Extension Center, including:
Particle induced x-ray emission
X-ray fluorescence
Rutherford backscattering spectrometry
Atomic absorption spectroscopy
Nuclear reaction analysis
And many more.
Planetarium
The Planetarium is an integral part of the Lamar Johnson Science Building, which opened in April 2001. It features:
A Digistar II digital starfield projector
18 photographic slide projectors
2 video projectors
Surround sound under a 40' (12.192m) dome
A 56-seat theatre
This facility is truly a wondrous environment in which to explore the wonders of the universe.
