
Understanding the Universe Starts Here
The KU Department of Physics & Astronomy is a bridge to understanding the world, educating future physicists and astronomers, unearthing new scientific discoveries, and challenging the perception of the Universe. Through the commitment that faculty, students, and staff have to transformational education and interdisciplinary research, "Understanding the Universe Starts Here," at the KU Department of Physics & Astronomy.
More about KU Physics and Astronomy

Undergraduate Program
Discover information about earning a degree in physics, astronomy, and more!

Graduate Program
Information about the Graduate Program - including degrees options, resources, and more!

Department Testimonials
A video from department faculty, students, and staff. See why they chose KU Physics & Astronomy!

Department Newsletters
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KU Physics & Astronomy News

Physics and Astronomy graduate program among 48 KU graduate programs in top 50 among public schools
KU has 48 graduate programs in the top 50 among public universities — including 10 programs in the top 10 — in the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings.

Physics and Astronomy Department REU Program Renewed for 3 Years
The Physics and Astronomy Department REU, a summer program supporting undergraduate research for 10 students from around the country each summer, was awarded a $460,000, 3-year renewal from the National Science Foundation.

Physics and Astronomy Undergraduate Chosen for Prestigious Summer Research Program
Abishai Mathai, an undergraduate in the Physics and Astronomy department, was accepted to the Global Quantum Leap International Research Training Experience Program at the National Institute for Materials Science in Japan for summer 2025.

KU senior receives Courtwright Award for Undergraduate Research Excellence
A University of Kansas student who is researching the theory that active galactic nuclei (AGNs) can significantly influence galaxy morphology is the recipient of the summer/fall 2024 Courtwright Award for Undergraduate Research Excellence through KU’s Center for Undergraduate Research & Fellowships.
KU Physics and Astronomy Statistics
Top 50
RANKING IN US GRADUATE PROGRAMS FOR PUBLIC SCHOOLS
6
NSF CAREER AWARDS AMONG ACTIVE FACULTY
6
NSF GRADUATE RESEARCH FELLOWS IN THE PAST 5 YEARS