The Department of Physics and Astronomy at SF State makes teaching its top priority. Students planning to pursue a PhD degree or to enter industry can expect an outstanding education and exposure to cutting-edge research through our B.S. and M.S. programs. The Department also offers a B.A. degree which provides excellent preparation for prospective elementary and high school teachers.
Faculty-led research includes:
Physics
- Lattice Gauge Theory and Quantum Chromodynamics
- Nonlinear Optics and Photonics
- QuasiCrystals and Colloid Dispersions
- Superconducting Devices
Astronomy
- Clusters of Galaxies and Dark Matter
- Exoplanets
- Galaxy Formation and Evolution
- Globular Clusters
- 3D Numerical Models of Planet Formation
April 24: Discovery of helium-core white dwarfs in NGC 6397 by Professor Adrienne Cool's research group
