Bachelor of Science in Physics

What is Physics?

Physics is the study of structures of matter, its motion, and how it behaves through space and time, and all related entities.

Physicists explore the nature of physical reality at its most fundamental level, from the icy depths of the South Pole to the hunt for the dark matter which is an important part of the universe. Physicists ask the fundamental questions - How did the universe begin? What is it made of? How can we exploit the properties of matter?

What does a physicist do?

As a physics student at South Dakota Mines, you will explore the properties and laws that govern space, time, energy, and matter.

With physics at South Dakota Mines, you will learn to undertake duties a physicist might do, including:

• Planning and conducting scientific experiments to test theories
• Developing scientific theories and models that attempt to explain the properties of the natural world, such as the force of gravity or the interaction of sub-atomic particles
• Writing scientific papers
• Presenting research findings
• Exploring fundamental properties of materials
• Using complex math to analyze data
• Designing scientific equipment
• Developing computer software to analyze and model data

South Dakota School of Mines & Technology was founded in 1885 to provide instruction in the region’s primary industry, which was mining. And now it includes so much more.

Over the years, South Dakota Mines evolved into a leading science and engineering university and is committed to excellence in science and engineering academics and research. We are working to develop the next generation of leaders and problem-solvers through STEM bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees. We are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and all undergraduate engineering programs are also accredited through ABET.

We offer a rigorous academic experience at a reasonable cost, with small class sizes, dedicated faculty, cutting-edge research, and many student programs and organizations. By the time they graduate, 75-80% of our students have had hands-on, real-world experiences through internships, cooperative education, or research projects. Our graduate and undergraduate students have research opportunities in areas such as energy and environmental systems, underground science and engineering, and materials and manufacturing. A few research examples include energy storage, cold spray technology, biomedical applications, and even disrupting criminal networks.

You are always welcome to visit our beautiful campus, but in case you can’t make it in person, we offer a virtual tour on our website. We are nestled in the eastern slope of the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Whether you prefer exploring the city or pursuing outdoor adventures, Rapid City and the Black Hills offer many options for you.

South Dakota Mines has been named one of the best engineering schools in the country for return on investment by College Factual for several years. In addition to rankings, there are many reasons to attend South Dakota Mines – great location, maximum value, personal attention and so much more.