At Hollins, physics courses investigate laws that underlie reality. They wrestle with tough questions. They explore the limits of what is known about the world. They discover there is a joy in understanding nature that comes from truly seeing it for the first time. The physics program seeks to integrate natural science with mathematical skills, developing students who can analyze and examine core principles of physics and theories about the nature of the universe.
Pictured top left: Mary K Gaillard ’60, pioneering theoretical physicist and Hollins alumnae, teaching at UC Berkeley. (Credit: AIP Emilio Segrè Visual Archives, Physics Today Collection)
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Physics Major
Students who major in physics will expand their knowledge of matter, motion, space, and time. Physics students develop an understanding of energy and matter as fundamental elements of the universe. Explore classical and modern physics using necessary mathematical skills, and develop problem-solving skills using principles and tools learned in mechanics, thermodynamics, quantum physics, and optics.
Physics Minor
Physics courses at Hollins develop both a conceptual and a quantitative appreciation of the laws of physics. They learn problem-solving skills and how to think critically and analytically.
Physics Research
Through research seminar, summer research fellowships, and independent study courses Hollins students have many opportunities to work closely with our physics faculty on open-ended projects that interest them. Current Hollins physics faculty have research expertise in quantum information, gravitational physics, mathematical physics, biophysics, and computational physics. Most recent faculty-supervised student projects include:
- Exploring a new model of neural activity inside the brain via computer simulation. This model has been linked to working memory, highlighting exciting connections between brain dynamics and cognitive function.
- Restoring old physics equipment in storage at Hollins to a working condition. Recovered equipment included a Michelson interferometer, a magnetic field probe, and the experimental setup for measuring the speed of light.