Program Overview
Computational Physics
College / School
College of Arts and Sciences School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
Departments
- Physics
- Computer Science and Engineering
Major
Computational Physics BS
Combined
Computational Physics BS/Physics MS
Program Description
The Computational Physics program at the University at Buffalo (UB) combines physics and computer science to provide students with a unique and fascinating major. Students will explore matter and energy, learn how the physical world works, and develop advanced computing techniques to solve problems.
What Will I Learn?
As a computational physics major, students will receive an exceptional education in both physics and computer science. The program starts with foundational classes and labs in computer science, programming, physics, calculus, and other math-related subjects. Students will then move on to advanced classes, building their analytical and critical thinking skills.
Research Opportunities
Undergraduates have opportunities to get involved with faculty research in both physics and computer science. Research areas have included high-energy physics, algorithms, computing education, and many more. UB also has over 100 active research centers and institutes.
Real-World Experience
Students can gain real-world experience through internships or co-ops at organizations in Buffalo or elsewhere. Student clubs and professional organizations focused on physics and computers are also available, including hacking competitions and other events.
Career Opportunities
As a computational physics graduate, students will have a combination of skills and experience that few people can match, leading to opportunities in various fields. Nearly every area of traditional physics has a place for people who can apply computational expertise, and many careers in computer science require a solid foundation in physics.
Faculty
Students will learn from national award-winning faculty, including National Science Foundation Career Award winners, SUNY Distinguished Professors, and Fellows of the American Physical Society, Association for Computing Machinery, and Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence.
Program Outline
Extracted Information from Text:
Degree Overview:
- Uniquness: Combines physics and computer science into one interdisciplinary program.
- Focus: Provides exceptional education in both physics and computer science, allowing students to explore matter and energy, while also learning how to solve problems using advanced computing techniques.
- Benefits: Combines two of UB's most popular programs, provides access to a top supercomputing center, and offers opportunities to stand out from the crowd.
Outline:
- Structure: Starts with foundational classes in computer science, programming, physics, calculus, and other math-related subjects, then progresses to advanced classes focused on analytical and critical thinking skills.
Assessment:
- Missing information: No details about assessment methods and criteria are provided in the context.
Teaching:
- Faculty: Students learn from award-winning faculty, including National Science Foundation Career Award winners, SUNY Distinguished Professors, and fellows of prestigious professional organizations.
- Teaching methods: Blends theoretical and experimental approaches, offering expertise in various research areas like high-energy physics and astrophysics.
Careers:
- Opportunities: Graduates pursue diverse careers in various fields, including astrophysics, weather forecasting, and software development.
- Outcomes: Graduates gain a combination of skills and experience that enables them to compete for unique opportunities in both physics and computer science.
Other:
- Research: Opportunities for undergraduate research in both physics and computer science, with research areas including high-energy physics, algorithms, and computing education.
- Internships: Gain real-world experience through internships and co-ops at diverse organizations.
- Student clubs: Active student clubs and professional organizations cater to interests in physics and computers, particularly on the computing side.
- Real-world learning: Opportunities to engage in real-world learning experiences.
Summary:
The computational physics program at UB offers a unique and comprehensive educational experience for students passionate about physics and computer science. The program's curriculum, faculty, and resources prepare graduates for diverse and rewarding careers in both fields.
