Atomic and Molecular Physics: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Program Overview

Explore the fundamental principles governing the interactions of matter and energy at atomic and molecular scales through a rigorous, research-driven curriculum. This program equips students with advanced analytical and theoretical skills to investigate the physical properties and dynamic behaviors of microscopic systems, forming the foundation for innovation across physics, chemistry, and materials science.

• Chemical Physics: Integrates principles from both chemistry and physics to analyze molecular systems, reaction dynamics, and energy transfer processes at the quantum level.
• Atomic Forces and Structure: Examines the nature of interatomic interactions, including electromagnetic and quantum mechanical forces that determine atomic stability and configuration.
• Molecular Orbital Theory: Explores the quantum mechanical description of electron distribution in molecules, enabling predictions of molecular geometry, reactivity, and spectroscopic properties.
• Magnetic Resonance: Investigates the behavior of atomic nuclei and electrons in magnetic fields, with applications in spectroscopy, imaging, and material characterization.
• Molecular Bonding: Studies the mechanisms and energetics behind covalent, ionic, and van der Waals interactions that govern molecular assembly and stability.
• Phase Equilibria: Analyzes the conditions under which different states of matter—solid, liquid, gas—coexist and transition, grounded in thermodynamic and statistical principles.
• Quantum Theory of Solids: Applies quantum mechanics to understand electronic structure, conductivity, and collective phenomena in crystalline and condensed matter systems.
• Applications to Elements and Complex Compounds: Applies theoretical and experimental methods to study specific elements and higher-order molecular systems, from simple diatomic species to intricate functional materials.