Explore Physics Beyond the Classroom
Physics and astronomy students at Trinity engage in diverse research from quantum mechanics to galaxies, co-author papers, and present nationally. They connect with Southwest Research Institute, visit McDonald Observatory, and study abroad in Scotland and Australia. Groups like Society of Physics Students and Trinity Women in Physics support community and outreach. The Semmes Distinguished Scholars scholarship offers full tuition and a $5,000 research stipend to top students.
Scholarships
Semmes Distinguished Scholars in Science Scholarship
Trinity University selects two or three outstanding incoming first-year students to be Semmes Distinguished Scholars in Science. This full-tuition scholarship, designed for four years of undergraduate study, is accompanied by a $5,000 stipend for research, materials, and professional travel. The scholarship is renewable provided awarded students maintain at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA and major in a STEM field
Study Abroad
Today, cross-cultural understanding is as much a practical necessity as an educational standard. More than 45 percent of Trinity students study abroad.
For physics majors, Trinity’s labwork is consistently concentrated in the fall, which makes it even easier to be part of these experiences in the spring. Physics students have ventured as far as Scotland or Australia for their study abroad opportunities.
Service Learning
Through the Society of Physics Students, students often volunteer with local science fairs, major fairs, and STEM Fests.
Student Organizations
Trinity houses an active chapter of the Society of Physics Students and Sigma Pi Sigma. The Physics Department is also active in both the Trinity Women in Science and Technology (TWIST) and the Trinity Women in Physics (TUWiP) student organizations.
Sigma Pi Sigma
The Sigma Pi Sigma honor society exists to recognize outstanding scholarship in physics; to encourage interest in physics among students at all levels; to promote an attitude of service of its members towards their fellow students, colleagues, and the public; and to provide a fellowship of persons who have excelled in physics.
Student Awards and Recognition
Outstanding Graduating Senior Award
This award is given to a student based on their overall academic and research performance in physics and general contribution to the department.
SPS Leadership Award
This award is given for service to the Society of Physics Students and its mission of community outreach.
Garnett G. Gray General Physics Prize
This award is given to the student who earns the top score on a first-year physics exam in honor of former department member Professor Gray.
Wagner Prize
In honor of Mr. & Mrs. Wagner, donors for the Wagner Physics Center, this award is given to the student with the top score on the senior assessment exam in physics.