New physics programs launched this fall
By Ivy Choe, contributing writer
Towson University’s Department of Physics, Astronomy, and Geosciences is introducing a set of new interdisciplinary degree programs, designed to make the fascinating world of physics more approachable and engaging. Students can declare these concentrations now during the Fall 2024 semester.
With options in biology, computer science or even entrepreneurship, these new programs offer a unique way to blend students interests with a strong foundation in physics.
Chairperson of the department Jennifer Scott has a Ph.D. in astronomy and understands what it’s like to feel overwhelmed by nuanced subjects.
“When I was a student and doing an internship one summer, I remember sitting in a conference where nearly everything flew over my head. I was just a sophomore, and at the time I didn’t understand most of what was being discussed,” she said. “But there was one concept called the Lyman-alpha Forest that stuck with me. I just loved the way it sounded, and I had no idea what the person was talking about. Then a couple of years later, I worked on that as my Ph.D. thesis, and now I research on the intergalactic medium and the material between galaxies.”
This sentiment is central to the department’s approach to its new programs, which include concentrations in Planetary Sciences, Computational Physics and Physics Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
These tracks are designed not just to educate but to inspire confidence in students who might feel like they don’t fit the typical mold of a physics major.
The Planetary Physics track offers a fresh understanding of astrophysics by being less physics-intensive and more overlapping with other sciences like geology, chemistry and geography.
“We have a concentration within our physics major for people interested in astronomy and astrophysics, and it’s been very physics focused and designed for people who likely want to go to graduate school in that field or work in that area of study,” Scott said. “But over the years, I’ve had students who were interested in the planetary sciences, but not as excited about astrophysics, and it made me realize that there’s an opportunity to open up some doors for people who want to go in a slightly different direction than what we currently offer.”
Other concentrations include the Computational Physics Concentration which integrates computer science and math, perfect for those drawn to tech fields like data science or artificial intelligence. For the entrepreneurial-minded, the Physics Innovation and Entrepreneurship program offers a unique blend of science and business skills.
Within these concentrations, two new courses will be added to the physics major. A Biophysics course, which combines biology, chemistry and physics and a Computational Physics course which was offered at the graduate level and is now open to undergraduates as well.
In addition to classroom learning, these new programs offer plenty of hands-on experiences through research projects and internship opportunities.
“We have a seminar where faculty share their research and discuss how students can get involved,” Scott said. “We also provide a big list of internships that we encourage students to apply for, even if they’re unsure about their qualifications. It’s all about gaining experience and growing along the way.”
Scott also emphasized the supportive community within the department.
“Our department is really about collaboration and inclusivity,” Scott said. “We’re bringing together different areas of science, recognizing that students today are interested in how disciplines overlap and connect. These programs are all about showing that physics isn’t some isolated, intimidating subject—it’s a gateway to understanding the world, and we want to make it clear that these degrees are for anyone curious about how science connects with their passions.”
