Physics is the scientific study of the nature and behavior of matter and energy. Using the scientific method physicists develop theories to describe observed behavior. Physics appeals to pragmatic people due to the wealth of applications of physics to technology, and to creative people due to the intellectual curiosity and creativity necessary for research.
The physics program at the University of Idaho has undergraduate B.A. and B.S. degrees, as well as a thriving graduate program with M.S. and Ph.D. degrees.
Students at both the undergraduate and graduate level typically perform research in the Department of Physics. Research areas include condensed matter physics, theoretical nuclear physics, astronomy & planetary science, and biological physics . In addition, there is an interest in research on physics teaching.