DARTMOUTH COLLEGE · UNITED STATES
Physics and Astronomy Undergraduate Programs
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
Dartmouth's Department of Physics and Astronomy offers several undergraduate programs designed to build a strong foundation in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and the core principles of physics and astronomy. You can begin your studies even without prior physics or astronomy experience, with introductory courses tailored for various levels of preparation, including options for students with advanced placement in math or both math and physics. As you progress, a range of upper-level electives allows you to customize your learning path to align with your specific interests. The Engineering Physics major is an option for students interested in both fundamental physics concepts and their practical applications. This interdisciplinary program draws from courses offered by both the Physics and Astronomy department and the Thayer School of Engineering. Additionally, the department offers minors in Astronomy and Physics, allowing students to complement their major studies in another subject.
Careers
Graduates from Dartmouth's physics and astronomy programs are well-prepared for a variety of career paths, leveraging their strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Research Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Engineer
- Educator
- Astrophysicist
- Medical Physicist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the general admission requirements for international students?
- International students must complete secondary education, submit official transcripts, and provide standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), though Dartmouth is test-optional for the Class of 2025 and beyond. English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo) are also required if English is not your native language.
- How do international students apply to the Physics and Astronomy program?
- International students apply to Dartmouth College through the Office of Admissions, not directly to the department. This involves submitting either the Coalition Application or Common Application, along with essays, recommendations, and an application fee.
- When are the application deadlines for undergraduate admission?
- There are three application timelines: Early Decision I (deadline November 1, notification December), Early Decision II (deadline January 2, notification February), and Regular Decision (deadline January 2, notification March).
- What career paths are available to graduates of the Physics and Astronomy programs?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Research Scientist, Data Analyst, Engineer, Educator, Astrophysicist, and Medical Physicist, leveraging their strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Is prior physics experience required to start the program?
- No, you can begin your studies even without prior physics or astronomy experience, as introductory courses are tailored for various levels of preparation, including options for students with advanced placement in math or both math and physics.
Entry requirements
High School Diploma or equivalentCompletion of secondary education is required for admission to undergraduate programs.
Students can begin introductory physics and astronomy courses at various levels, including options for those with no prior experience or with advanced placement in mathematics.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to Dartmouth's official Admissions and Financial Aid pages for the most current tuition and fee information for international students.
Tuition (home)Please refer to Dartmouth's official Admissions and Financial Aid pages for the most current tuition and fee information for domestic students.
LivingEstimated living costs are available on Dartmouth's Financial Aid website.
How to apply
1. Complete the ApplicationSubmit either the Coalition Application or the Common Application.
2. Provide Academic TranscriptsSubmit official transcripts from all secondary schools attended.
3. Standardized Test ScoresSubmit official SAT or ACT scores (Dartmouth is test-optional for the Class of 2025 and beyond, but check current policies).
4. English ProficiencySubmit official scores from an approved English proficiency test (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test) if English is not your native language or the primary language of instruction in your secondary school.
5. Letters of RecommendationSubmit recommendations from your school counselor and teachers.
6. EssaysComplete the required essays for your chosen application platform.
7. Application FeePay the non-refundable application fee or request a waiver if eligible.
Frequently asked questions
What are the general admission requirements for international students?
+
International students must complete secondary education, submit official transcripts, and provide standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), though Dartmouth is test-optional for the Class of 2025 and beyond. English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo) are also required if English is not your native language.
How do international students apply to the Physics and Astronomy program?
+
International students apply to Dartmouth College through the Office of Admissions, not directly to the department. This involves submitting either the Coalition Application or Common Application, along with essays, recommendations, and an application fee.
When are the application deadlines for undergraduate admission?
+
There are three application timelines: Early Decision I (deadline November 1, notification December), Early Decision II (deadline January 2, notification February), and Regular Decision (deadline January 2, notification March).
What career paths are available to graduates of the Physics and Astronomy programs?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Research Scientist, Data Analyst, Engineer, Educator, Astrophysicist, and Medical Physicist, leveraging their strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Is prior physics experience required to start the program?
+
No, you can begin your studies even without prior physics or astronomy experience, as introductory courses are tailored for various levels of preparation, including options for students with advanced placement in math or both math and physics.