North Central College - Naperville, IL

Physics

Why choose physics at North Central College?

Physicists study the tiny particles that can help solve the biggest mysteries of the universe. At North Central, you’ll join those scientists. Full-time professors teach all of our science courses—no teaching assistants here—so, from day one you’ll work side by side with the experts, both in the lab and in the classroom. You’ll gain the research and academic experience you’ll need to pursue graduate studies, a career in the physics industry or a teaching position.

You may also:

  • Select a degree track in physics, physics teaching or engineering.
  • Obtain laboratory training in electrical and optical measurements, analog and digital electronics and advanced experimental physics.
  • Present your research findings at local, state and national conferences.
  • Gain valuable work experience through an internship at a nearby corporate or government research laboratory, such as Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Batavia or Argonne National Laboratory near Lemont.
  • Tap into the professional networks of our professors and alumni.

News

Michael McEvoy
Michael McEvoy of Buffalo Grove was awarded the 2012 Outstanding Major in Physics Award during Honors Day May 15 at North Central College.
Kirsten Coffman
Kirsten Coffman of Machesney Park was awarded the 2012 Outstanding Student in the Science Division Award during Honors Day May 15 at North Central College.
Heather Carlson '91 delivered the keynote address at North Central College’s 15th annual Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research.

News

Internships

  • Argonne National Laboratory, near Lemont, IL

Graduate Schools

Recent graduates in physics have been accepted at:

  • University of Minnesota
  • University of New Mexico
  • Vanderbilt University
  • University of Tennessee
  • University of Illinois-Chicago

Careers

Recent graduates in physics include:

  • Scientist, Computer Sciences Corporation
  • Physicist, Argonne National Lab
  • Physicist, Fermilab
  • Physics teacher, Hinsdale Central High School
  • Physics teacher, Cretin-Derham High School, St. Paul, MN

Feature

Eugenia Rakhno

Physics major

North Central College’s 2008 Outstanding Major in Physics, Eugenia was one of just 10 students selected for a program in medical physics at Vanderbilt University, where she’s getting her doctorate. She reports that North Central prepared her well for her rigorous clinical residency and research project. “A small program can be a big plus,” she says. “It was always nice to see my advisor’s door open and just stop by and chat a little. Plus, North Central’s location means students can find research and internship opportunities at national laboratories like Fermilab and Argonne.”

Eugenia came to the United States from Belarus at age 14. While at North Central, she studied abroad in China and Japan. When she finishes her doctoral studies, she plans to help treat cancer patients. “I hope to work in a hospital and make treatment plans using ionizing radiation,” she says.

Feature

Kirsten Coffman

Physics

Kirsten Coffman chose to study at North Central College because of the winning cross country and track team legacies and because the College is close to her home. When she came to North Central, however, she was undecided about her academic major. She soon learned the College offered a pre-engineering program that incorporates her physics, math and chemistry interests.

The summer between her sophomore and junior years, Kirsten conducted research on particle physics under the direction of Paul Bloom, assistant professor of physics. As an upperclassman, Kirsten has taken on a leadership position by helping in different sections of physics courses.

When she completes her studies at North Central, Kirsten plans to pursue graduate work in biomedical engineering. Her goal is to develop prosthetic advancements.

“The professors here are impressive, and I’ve been able to build good relationships with them,” Kirsten says. “A good thing about being a physics major is that the science department here is a community.”