Physics at SDSU—What's the department like?

Hello! I'm a junior considering majoring in physics. I've been looking into San Diego State University and wanted to ask if anyone here has any info about their physics department. Are the courses challenging, professors helpful, and are there any interesting research opportunities?

Hey there! San Diego State University (SDSU) has a solid physics department with a well-rounded curriculum that covers various subfields of physics. Overall, students have found the courses to be challenging and engaging. The department offers both Bachelor's and Master's level programs in Physics. For undergraduate students, the current degree programs you can pursue are a BA or BS in Physics, or a BS in Chemical Physics.

The faculty at SDSU are generally considered to be knowledgeable and helpful. They have diverse research interests, ranging from condensed matter physics to biophysics and from astrophysics to particle physics. This means you'll likely find professors working on research projects that align with your interests. Building connections with faculty members early on, whether through coursework or research collaborations, can lead to mentorship opportunities and guidance in your academic journey.

As for research opportunities, SDSU provides plenty of options for undergraduate students to get involved. The university is committed to fostering an active research culture and has Physics research centers and labs in addition to other research facilities. Many students participate in research projects alongside professors or as part of a team working on faculty-led projects. Additionally, as an SDSU physics student, you may also have the chance to collaborate and network with researchers from nearby institutions like the University of California, San Diego.

Overall, the physics department at SDSU is well-regarded, with a dedicated faculty, diverse research opportunities, and a challenging curriculum. Make sure to visit the University, talk to current students, and connect with alumni to gain an even better understanding of what it's like to be a physics major at SDSU. Good luck!