Physics and Astronomy
Explore the great unknown
At Macalester, you’ll study everything from quarks to galaxies. Our majors ask big questions about energy, matter, and the mysteries of space and time itself.
Physics is how we make sense of the universe
The phone in your pocket? The laptop you’re reading this on? None of it would exist without the fundamental laws of nature that Physics studies. Physics underlies the technology that powers the modern world and is shaping what comes next, from renewable energy to the structure of galaxies to quantum computing to artificial intelligence.
Small classes means big learning
Our professors will guide you through the fundamentals while helping you find your niche, from post graduate engineering preparation to astrophysics research. Small classes mean you’ll work closely with faculty who know your name and your interests. (And we’ll do it in style, through a little something called Hawaiian Shirt Fridays.)
A path toward engineering
Many Mac physics grads go on to master’s and doctoral programs in engineering at places like MIT, Yale, and the University of Michigan. Our curriculum gives you the foundation: problem-solving skills, mathematical fluency, and hands-on lab experience. Learn more about our pre-engineering pathway.
Get ready to research
Every physics major completes an original research project before graduating. Browse our student research journal to see what Mac physics students are investigating. Recent grads have earned PhDs at MIT and Cornell, become National Science Foundation graduate research fellows, and found employment at places like NASA, Google, 3M, and Epic Systems.
Study the stars
If your eyes light up at the thought of galaxies and supernovae, focus on astronomy within the physics major. Through the MACRO Consortium, you can participate in research using an advanced robotic telescope in Arizona—collecting real data and contributing to published research. You’ll also collaborate with students and faculty from other colleges in the consortium, joining a tight-knit community of young astronomers.
It was really compelling to be able to look up and see everything we had talked about in class.Lila Schisgal ’25 Physics & astronomy major
Physics and Astronomy in the Cities
4
Minnesota’s rank in the nation for businesses in technology and innovation
500+
Medical device companies in Minnesota, including Medtronic
5
Miles to the University of Minnesota, a top-ranked research university
Join our community
- High-Power Rocketry Club. Build a rocket and show it off at competitions around the region.
- Physics and Astronomy Club. Host public observing nights with Macalester’s research-grade telescope (or take in a sci-fi movie with the group).
- Weekly seminars. Learn from visiting researchers and industry professionals at our department talks.
- Physics wing. Study or hang out in our slice of Olin-Rice.
Are you a future physics and astronomy major at Mac?
If you’re considering Mac, let us know. We’ll keep you up to date on application deadlines and visit opportunities.
