IPFW Department of Physics Mission Statement

The IPFW Department of Physics provides high quality physics education, producing well prepared graduates who are confident in their abilities and understanding of physics. The Department of Physics promotes physics research and creative activities of faculty, students and staff. The Department of Physics engages with the University community and the larger community providing greater understanding of the nature of physical science, an appreciation of physics in everyday life, and technical expertise.

Department Goals

Provide excellent education

General education students will

• Gain an appreciation of physics in common life experiences
• Gain insight into physical processes
• Understand the Nature of Science.
• Qualitatively analyze and solve problems
• Gain the ability to think critically.

Students completing an introductory physics courses will 

• Gain an appreciation of physics as a useful tool in their field of study
• Gain insight into physical processes
• Understand the Nature of Science.
• Qualitatively analyze and solve problems
• Gain the ability to think critically
• Quantitatively analyze and solve problems of depth and complexity

Physics Majors will

• Gain a strong working knowledge of basic science and physics: mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, optics, quantum mechanics, and other modern physics topics.
• Be involved in research 

Post-Baccalaureate students will

• Have the skills and knowledge needed to evenly compete with degree holders from larger universities
• Provide a research center for scholarly and creative physics activities 
• Provide physical and scientific knowledge to the greater community

Vision

• To be nationally recognized as a model of an effective and successful physics program.
• To be a program of choice in the region
• To have a reputation for our successful research and creative activities
• To have a reputation for the success of our students and graduates.