The Physics and Astronomy department focuses on the study of space, time, matter, and energy.
Introductory courses provide students with the fundamentals of the subject, an introduction to the logic and philosophy of science, and insight into the understanding and applications of contemporary physics and astrophysics. Advanced courses allow students to delve deeper into each topic, from quantum theory to thermal physics. Majors will conduct and complete an independent project through participation in the senior thesis.
Sylvia Deschaine
Academic Administrative Assistant and Carnegie Science Hall Coordinator
Phone: 207-786-6490
sdescha2@bates.edu
Physics and Astronomy majors at Bates go on to successful careers across a wide range of fields, including science and technology, information technology, and financial services. In addition, graduates often pursue post-graduate studies at prestigious universities such as Princeton, Harvard, and Virginia Tech, exploring subjects as diverse as electrical engineering, geophysics, medical physics, and more.
of 2020-2024 Bates graduates are employed and/or attending graduate school — settled into their next opportunity within 6 months of graduation.
Physics and Astronomy at Bates is a hands-on major that allows students to directly investigate and influence science. Students take their scientific knowledge and curiosity out of the classroom and into the laboratory, where they’re able to directly contribute to scientific advancements hand-in-hand with their professors. In addition, the department regularly hosts visiting speakers and holds events for students, faculty, and staff, and the campus features both a machine shop and a 25-seat planetarium.
Faculty members of the Physics and Astronomy department bring an enthusiasm for interactive teaching methods and student engagement in research. Faculty conduct experiments at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and develop and assess new ways of studying science. They hold post-graduate degrees from a variety of renowned universities and bring a wealth of experience in their chosen subject area. Areas of expertise include the evolution of galaxies, optical sensing, and neutrinos.
David Omasombo ’26 and Chiwer Mayen ’26 have shared many basketball courts across their young lifetimes, including historic Alumni Gym, but the first one stands out in their memories for being the worst, in a technical sense. The surface was uneven, the rims inconsistent, and, most of the time, there were no nets.
Chronicling Bates alumni in the news — from the class of ’77 to ’26 — and a remembering journalist Kim Gamel ’90.
Many Bates faculty and staff have received grants, awards, and other acknowledgements of their strong teaching and research. Read on for more great Bates news.
