Undergraduate, Graduate, and Outreach Education

Physics Education at Illinois

Instruction in physics began on January 1, 1870, three years after the University was founded. Dean Stillman Robinson made it a cornerstone of the curriculum in "mechanics" (now engineering), because he believed that an understanding of physics was essential to the education of every engineer. More than 135 years later, physics remains the liberal arts education for a technical society. Our department, ranked among the top ten in the United States, is recognized world-wide for its excellence.

Physics at Illinois has also long been known for its innovation in physics instruction. In 1961, the creation of PLATO (Programmed Logic for Automated Teaching Operations), a computer-based learning environment developed by physicists and engineers at the University of Illinois, represented the first use of a computer for pedagogy, the first time-shared education system, and the first on-line community. That spirit of instructional innovation to benefit our students continues today in ACTs, "just-in-time teaching," web-based interactive homework, and new courses to teach communications and career skills to undergraduates.

The physicists of Illinois also reach beyond the confines of classroom and laboratory to bring the wonder of physics to elementary, middle, and high school students, as well as to the general public, in stimulating, effective outreach programs.

If you are interested in a great physics education and want to know more about applying to our programs, contact Toni Pitts for undergraduate information or Wendy Wimmer for graduate programs.