Applied Physics

Bachelor of Science Degree

The applied physics B.S. program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in emerging science, technology, and engineering fields as well as entry into graduate and professional programs in applied physics, instrumentation, material science, and engineering fields. The program is intended to be completed in four years, and the content of the program is fully compatible with the SUNY transfer path for physics, allowing for seamless transfer between SUNY institutions. First-time full-time students will need to complete 24 credits at FSC before enrolling in the program.  
 
An applied physics major differs from a standard physics major as it takes general concepts of physics, a broad foundational field, and provides opportunity for students to apply them in practical situations relevant to careers in emerging high-tech industries. The curriculum builds on a strong foundation in general physics and a rigorous mathematical preparation, and takes students through a progression of highly applied advanced courses such as Materials Thermodynamics, Photonics, and Quantum Optics. These courses are designed to provide students with marketable skills needed to launch a career in the technical R&D workforce where hands-on experience is key. Furthermore, students have the unique opportunity to apply the concepts gained from such courses through their enrollment in a three-semester research capstone experience culminating in the Applied Physics Thesis course, by which they work alongside faculty to perform cutting edge physics and applied physics undergraduate research. 

Applied Physics (BS) Program Outcomes: 
Upon completion of the program, applied physics graduates will be able to: 

• Demonstrate the application of physics concepts across practical fields in multiple ways including mathematically, conceptually, verbally, pictorially, computationally by simulation, and experimentally. 
• Exercise critical thinking in applying physics concepts to modern technology and to the solutions of complex technical or quantitative problems faced by industry and society. Emphasis will be placed on our relationship with our environment. 
• Organize and communicate impactful ideas for a wide range of technical, engineering, and general audiences. Intrinsic to this goal, graduates will be able to work independently and collaboratively in diverse, interdisciplinary teams as a member or leader in pursuing a common goal. 
• Engage in research and development activities, including organizing and applying course-based knowledge and guidance from research mentors to solve applied problems of broad practical interest in technically and industrially relevant fields.

Typical Employment Opportunities and Graduate/Professional School Options 
Examples of career paths and graduate/professional school opportunities for which this program can provide preparation are presented below: 
 
Materials Science and Engineering 
(characterization, testing, and development of advanced materials including semiconductors, thin films, nanomaterials, and functional materials for electronics, energy, and manufacturing applications): job titles include Materials Engineer, Failure Analysis Engineer, Quality Engineer, R&D Scientist. 
 
Photonics and Optical Engineering 
(design, development, and optimization of laser systems, fiber optic communications, imaging systems, and optical sensors for applications in telecommunications, medical devices, defense, and manufacturing): job titles include Optical Engineer, Laser Systems Engineer, Photonics Technician, Optical Design Engineer, Test Engineer. 
 
Quantum Technology and Computing 
(development of quantum computers, quantum sensors, quantum communication systems, and related hardware for emerging quantum information technology industries): job titles include Quantum Applications Engineer, Quantum Hardware Engineer, Quantum Research Scientist, Cryogenic Systems Engineer, Quantum Algorithm Developer. 
 
Instrumentation and Sensors 
(design, testing, and integration of measurement systems, sensors, detectors, and precision instrumentation for scientific research, medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and industrial quality control): job titles include Instrumentation Engineer, Test Engineer, Metrology Engineer, Sensor Systems Engineer, Applications Engineer, Field Service Engineer. 
 
Computational Physics and Modeling 
(development and application of computational methods, simulations, and numerical models for physics-based problems in engineering, finance, data science, and scientific research): job titles include Computational Scientist, Modeling and Simulation Engineer, Data Scientist, Scientific Software Developer, Quantitative Analyst, Research Software Engineer. 
 
Physics Graduate Programs and Research Careers 
For students seeking entry into graduate programs in physics, applied physics, engineering physics, astrophysics, space physics, or related fields leading to research careers in academia, national laboratories, or industrial R&D. 
  
Engineering Graduate Programs 
For students seeking entry into graduate programs in engineering disciplines (electrical, mechanical, optical, materials, aerospace, or computer engineering). 

Admission to Farmingdale State College - State University of New York is based on the qualifications of the applicant without regard to age, sex, marital or military status, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, disability or sexual orientation.