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Physics Department

Why Study Physics?

Part of physics is concerned with building real stuff in the real world. Another part of physics explores the mysteries of the universe and attempts to discover the hidden patterns in everything. We aim to do both at Cortland where our main objectives are to help our students develop confidence working with their hands and in solving complex calculations that describe nature, culminating in powerful mathematical and physical intuitions that can be applied to a wide range of disciplines.

Cortland Physics in a Nutshell

The Physics Department at SUNY Cortland offers a student-centered experience and a philosophy of pushing our students to realize their highest potential. Some features of our program are:

  • Small class sizes: A typical upper-division physics class at SUNY Cortland has about 10 students.
  • Combination of theoretical and hands-on experience: Our curriculum features a combination of advanced theoretical courses and hands-on experiences that provide a well-rounded education.
  • Challenge: We believe that it is our duty to prepare you for demanding career paths and graduate programs by giving you a challenging college experience with strong support along the way.
  • Personalized advising: You will have a meeting with your academic advisor (a faculty member in the Physics Department) each semester to check your degree progress and plan courses for the next semester.
  • Opportunities to conduct research with professors: The Physics faculty are actively engaged in a broad range of research topics and frequently work with students.
  • Student club: The Physics and Engineering (PEN) Club is an active, interdisciplinary group of students who host social events and work on engineering projects together.
  • Our planetarium: We are one of a few campuses in New York that has the ability to explore the universe in HD under a full dome planetarium.
  • Location and Activities: SUNY Cortland is less than a 4 hour drive from NYC, has many opportunities for outdoor experiences in the Adirondacks and the Finger Lakes region (including multiple downhill ski resorts within half an hour of Cortland), has an amazing Student Life Center, a reputation for strong sports teams, and has a lively social both on and off campus.

Interviews with the 2024 Physics seniors

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Physics Department Overview
The Grating Challenge
Academics
Prospective Students
Current Students



News

STEM symposium a family affair

Nov. 5, 2024
It’s no coincidence that both father and daughter were encouraged to pursue science academic careers.

Innovative program seeks to spark science careers

Sept. 10, 2024
New students from underrepresented groups exposed to new science, technology, engineering and math options.

Faculty, staff recognized by SUNY chancellor

April 30, 2024
SUNY will present Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence to three SUNY Cortland employees.

SUNY Cortland recognized for election encouragement

April 16, 2024
For a second time, the university is honored for its voter education, registration and turnout efforts.

Physics and art departments host eclipse viewing  

March 19, 2024
A rare solar phenomenon will unite the worlds of physics and art on campus.