Physics Mission

Vision Statement 

UTC’s Department of Physics and Astronomy is committed to exceptional teaching and scholarship through meaningful undergraduate research experiences, curricular innovations, and community outreach. 

Mission Statement 

The Mission of the Department of Physics and Astronomy at UTC is to 

• Continuously pursue excellence in undergraduate physics education by providing an outstanding undergraduate-level preparation for our majors and minors. This allows them to successfully enter physics, engineering, astronomy, and other technical fields at the graduate level, or to embark on a career in health professions, industry, research, or science education. We help students to develop strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills with a deep appreciation of the role physics  plays in technical innovations in the modern world.
• Provide a wide variety of effective and relevant classes in introductory physics, astronomy, and general science for students whose majors or career goals require such classes or who choose to make these subjects a part of their liberal arts education.
• Provide outstanding opportunities for undergraduate research that engages students in STEM disciplines and transforms them into scientists, innovators, and leaders of the 21st century.
• Lead high-impact education and public outreach programs for the local community, K-12 schools, and especially through the Clarence T. Jones Observatory.
• Foster a climate in which all voices and perspectives can contribute to the development of science.