Why Physics @SFU

An SFU Physics degree provides an excellent foundation for a rewarding career in our rapidly evolving world. With a strong academic and research reputation, SFU Physics equips students with in-demand skills like problem-solving, data analysis, and mathematical modelling. Our students thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment where both undergraduates and graduates have opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research and receive personalized mentorship. This environment helps students develop their unique strengths and reach their full potential. Our graduates go on to succeed in academia and impactful careers across various industries.

Future Undergraduate Students

Prospective Graduate Students

In our increasingly technology-driven world, an SFU Physics degree equips you with essential skills. Physics is the foundation of many technologies and offers solutions to future challenges. By studying physics you gain a deeper understanding of the natural world, from the smallest particles to the vastness of the universe. This knowledge is crucial for addressing global issues such as climate change, energy sustainability and technological innovation.

鈥淪FU Physics gave me the opportunity to work on a lunar mission for NASA.鈥�

Starla Talbot, Physics Major and Math Minor, 2012

Graduate students Alexander Kurkjian and Kevin Morse work with Prof. Stephanie Simmons on fibre coupling a quantum processor chip in the Silicon Quantum Technology Laboratory.

Lydia Zajiczek combines physics and engineering skills to use lasers to cool atomic gases to a temperature near absolute zero and study the properties of this new state of ultra-cold quantum matter.

You'll develop analytical and problem solving skills that will be useful for a wide range of careers. SFU Physics provides a robust education with strong student-faculty interactions and mentorship. From the first year, students can join our enriched physics stream and take advantage of our Adopt-a-Physicist program.

鈥淪eeing the wonder and awe in visitor鈥檚 eyes inspired my curiosity鈥�

Kyle Dally, Physics Major, 2020 and Professional Development Program with Secondary Math Minor, 2022, on working in the Trottier Observatory

Whether your passion lies in academia, industry, research, or beyond, our programs will prepare you for a successful career in various fields. At SFU Physics, we're about applying that learning to real-world scenarios and preparing for a future full of possibilities.

鈥淪tudent camaraderie, cooperation, and collaboration made SFU a fun place.鈥�

Joseph Lucero, Biological Physics Honours, 2019, MSc Physics, 2021

Undergraduate student Anja Rabus and Professor Eundeok Mun are programming electrical resistivity measurements while graduate student Jeonghun Lee is taking single crystal samples out of the furnace in the 4D Lab Facility

Graduate student Leya Lopez works with Prof. Steve Dodge to align optics for an experiment.

Students learn both in and out of the classroom. From volunteering to leadership roles, our students have opportunities to develop soft skills that play such an important role in career progress. Our research opportunities allow students to work on cutting-edge international research projects and provide invaluable practical experience.

鈥淭he Physics Student Association is a bubbling hub of resources and ideas.鈥�

Symphony Huang, Physics Honours, 2020

Where you can find our graduates

A Physics degree from SFU is your gateway to a world of opportunities. Our graduates thrive in diverse careers applying the skills they've honed in our programs. They excel in technical roles like Applied Physicist, Data Scientist, Electrical Engineer, and Forensic Analyst, and hold academic positions at prestigious institutions around the globe.

Many of our alumni are in leadership positions as CEOs, Directors, and Heads of Research. Others have pursued paths in areas as diverse as Climate Scientist, Intellectual Property Lawyer, Firefighter and Pastor. Additionally, our graduates succeed in roles like Lab Managers, Operations Managers, Software Engineers, Physicians and Project Managers.

Whether your passion lies in academia, industry, research, or beyond, our programs equip you with the skills needed for a successful career in various fields. At SFU Physics you'll develop critical thinking, problem-solving and analytical skills. These abilities will enable you to tackle real-world challenges and innovate in diverse work environments.

SFU Physics: Learn what is possible