Key Features of the Department of Physics

Physics is the foundational discipline for all science and technology. Modern physics deals with everything from the world of elementary particles to life, the universe, and even economic and social phenomena. The Department of Physics conducts research that pioneers new frontiers in physics, ranging from studies in elementary particles, nuclear physics, and astrophysics that explore the fundamental origins of natural phenomena, to the development of materials and measurement technologies that underpin cutting-edge science and technology.

After graduation, students can pursue further study of physics in graduate school, becoming researchers who lead global science and technology. Alternatively, they can contribute to developing technologies that enrich people’s lives worldwide as company researchers or engineers. The wide-ranging contributions to society made by many Department of Physics graduates demonstrate their ability to excel in various fields.

The curriculum at the Department of Physics is designed to prepare students for future careers in both fundamental science and applied technology. For mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics/statistical mechanics, we have prepared a curriculum designed to that ensure sufficient lecture time is allocated and that students steadily develop their understanding. Starting in the third year, students can also explore fields closer to the cutting edge.

Physics is a discipline grounded in body of knowledge built up over time. Accordingly, the curriculum is designed so that students can gain a solid foundation in core physics subjects, such as quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and mathematical physics, during their second and third years. Furthermore, through physics experiments and exercises, students will develop an appreciation for the essential appeal of the field.

From the fall semester of the third year through the fourth year, specialized and cutting-edge lectures are offered in fields such as nuclear physics, elementary particle physics, geophysics, astrophysics, relativity theory, biophysics, and condensed matter physics.

In the fourth year, students join research groups to conduct their graduation research.