Physics


Overview

Physicists work on problems that are connected with the real world — things that we see and cannot see around us, from the region of the subatomic to the expanse of the universe. Many physicists conduct basic research in industrial, university, and national laboratories, while others work in a variety of fields that require sophisticated problem-solving skills. Some physicists teach in high schools, colleges, and universities. About half of the students graduating with a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science Degree in physics immediately begin careers. The other half go into graduate school performing basic research and careers in teaching at universities.

A physics education is fundamental to many career paths other than simply physics paths. Studies in Biology, Engineering, Medicine, and Science Education are but a few of the careers that are heavily dependent upon knowledge of physics. A study of physics also encourages critical thinking. Business and pre-law majors often are encouraged to take physics to develop this thinking process. The Physics department at Seward County Community College offers courses of study designed to meet the needs of students considering a career in physics or a related field.

Approximate Cost

2026-2027 Financial Aid Cost of Attendance Budgets

(Estimates Based on Full-Time Enrollment)

Expenses included in this Cost of Attendance are outlined by federal law. These are estimates of the total cost of attending SCCC for one year. Cost of Attendance is used to determine each student’s eligibility for financial aid as you may not receive federal aid greater than your cost of attendance. THIS IS NOT YOUR BILL.

Tuition and Fees:

Seward County Resident

 

$4,704

In State$4,800
Border State$5,496
Out of State/International$5,952

Books, Course Materials, Supplies

and Equipment:

$1,570
Food and Housing: 

On Campus (SLC)

Off Campus

With Parents/Relatives

$8,960

$9,160

$5,496

Personal Expenses:$3,084
Transportation:$1,552.50
Loan Fees:$50
Credential & Licensure Costs:Varies by program/course

Career Opportunities

  • Aerospace engineer
  • Acoustical physicist
  • Astronomer Astrophysicist
  • Biophysicist
  • Electronics engineer
  • Electronics technician
  • Environmental scientist
  • Fiber optic engineer
  • Fluid physicist
  • Geophysicist Health physicist
  • Mathematician
  • Materials scientist
  • Mechanical engineer
  • Molecular physicist
  • Nuclear engineer Photonics engineer
  • Physicist
  • Research physicist
  • Scientific programmer
  • Solar energy engineer
  • Technical consultant

to name just a few!

Clubs & Organizations

STEM Club

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. The Pathways: STEM Club is for SCCC students majoring in any STEM related area or having a general interest in a STEM area.

Contact the Division Chair for more information on math/science related clubs and organizations.

Curriculum

Associate of Science

The Associate of Science degree is a two-year degree that prepares students to transfer to a four-year school to complete their full degree in their chosen field. Fundamentals of the industry are a core emphasis, but general education requirements make up the bulk of the curriculum.

View Associate of Science Curriculum

Program Faculty

Darrin Hook

Physics Instructor
A180
Hobble Academic

Darrin Hook has a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics, a Bachelor of Science in Physics and a Master’s of Science in Physics, all from Bowling Green State University.

Dr. William Bryan

Division Chair, Science, Math & HPERD Director, Director, Southwest Regional Science Fair
A182
Hobble Academic

Dr. William Bryan began his post-secondary education at West Texas A&M University where he earned bachelor’s degrees in both Chemistry and Physics. His graduate work includes a master’s in Chemistry from West Texas A&M and a PhD in STEM Education.

Dr. Bryan likes watching student faces when they get the “aha” moment in understanding what and why they are learning. Dr. Bryan has traveled to thirty-four US States and has a goal to make it to all fifty.


Contact Information

Physics

A183
Hobble Academic Building