Physics and Engineering Department

Dr. Bob Davis, head of the physics and engineering department, answers some common questions below. Don’t see your question, please contact Dr. Davis today!

Q: Why should I study physics and engineering at Taylor?

There are many reasons for studying at Taylor:

1. Taylor has a reputation for excellence; U.S. News and World Report has ranked Taylor as Midwest’s #1 regional college for the last 6 years, and they stress our emphasis on teaching.
2. We integrate the aspects of discipleship into how we prepare you for your future as an engineer or physicist. This is evident in the opportunities you will have to grow in your field through use of our equipment and our collaborative space in the Euler Science Complex. It is also evident in the purposeful intent our faculty have in getting to know you.
3. We fully embrace the liberal arts education. You can major in physics and engineering and you will still be immersed in a whole-person education. We will encourage you to participate in other activities on campus like student leadership, athletics, music or theatre.

Overall, know that if you study physics and engineering at Taylor, you will graduate with an enormous range of opportunities in many fields and graduate schools.

 

Q: What opportunities do I have for professional development outside of classes?

Here are a few opportunities for professional development:

• Research and project opportunities!   If you have ambition and drive, you can gain graduate-level experience as an undergraduate student by working on Taylor’s real-life projects funded by agencies such as NASA, the Air Force and NSF.  Projects have included:
  • Solar Car
  • Satellites and Satellite Components
  • Nanosatellite proposal – the only undergraduate program selected for an Air Force University nanosat program $100,000 grant.
  • Muscle Biopsy research in collaboration with the physical education and human performance department
  • Summer internships – Students can get prestigious summer internships at major labs, including NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Stanford Linear Accelerator Center, Argonne National Lab, Fermi Lab and the Mayo Clinic
  • Service learning projects, including a Central American water well drilling ministry in partnership with the earth and environmental science department.
  • Student teaching

 

Q: What kind of equipment will I be able to work with in the Euler Science Complex?

As a Physics student, you will have the opportunity to work with a variety of equipment that will prepare you for your career.  We would love to have you schedule a visit so you can see the equipment, and we can share with you why we are so passionate about the Euler Science Complex!