Physics & Optical Engineering

The physics curriculum is designed to develop a strong foundation in classical and modern physics, which will serve as a basis for future specialization, for additional study at the graduate level, and for design and development work in industrial laboratories.

Engineering physics at Rose-Hulman provides students with a unique opportunity to learn the foundation concepts of physics, apply them to design, and make a concentrated study in semiconductors, micro- and nano-technology. (We work in the clean room—aka the MiNDS lab- a lot)

We are one of the few colleges in the country to offer an optical engineering program, and were the first college to have an accredited program (ABET) in optical engineering. Our program provides a firm foundation for those interested in continuing their studies in optics at the graduate level, as well as for those going into industry. 

You can tailor your educational experience by adding a minor or certificate in specific areas of interest.

Our photonics, fiber, acoustics, and semiconductor magneto-optics laboratories are equipped with leading edge technology for undergraduate and graduate research projects.

Our state-of-the-art introductory physics laboratories have modern equipment to help you master the concepts you learn in the classroom.

Starting as a freshman, our MiNDs laboratory will give you opportunities in the area of semiconductor and micro/nano technology through courses and hands-on experiments in fabrication, characterization and modeling of micro/nano devices and systems. There are numerous professors performing state of the art research with undergraduates within the cleanroom year round.

Located just east of the main campus, Oakley Observatory is equipped for teaching, as well as conducting research in variable star photometry, searching for supernovae or searching for comets.