Physics and Astronomy

Student Organizations

Carthage has more than 100 student groups and organizations through which students can get involved, explore possible careers, meet other students, work closely with faculty advisors, and perform community service. See a full list of Carthage student organizations.


Society of Physics Students

Society of Physics StudentsThe Society of Physics Students (SPS) is a professional association explicitly designed for students. The Carthage chapter of SPS is very active on campus and in the community. The Carthage chapter has been in existence since 1995. Activities have included field trips to Fermilab and the Yerkes Observatory, attending research meetings at places like Argonne National Laboratory, creation and presentation of physics demos in the "Flying Circus of Physics," and a forthcoming research expedition to study the Northern Lights. Members regularly visit Kenosha area middle and high schools to present physics and astronomy demonstrations. They also offer astronomy shows in the Carthage Planetarium. 

The group has been named an outstanding SPS chapter by the American Institute of Physics in the past. Fewer than 5 percent of the chapters across the country are honored — less than one per state. Chapters are selected based on the depth and breadth of SPS activities conducted in physics research, public science outreach, physics tutoring programs, hosting and representation at physics meetings, and providing social interaction for chapter members. 


Sigma Pi Sigma

Sigma Pi Sigma is the national physics honor society, which elects members on the basis of outstanding academic achievement. Carthage has its own Sigma Pi Sigma chapter. Sigma Pi Sigma membership confers recognition of outstanding scholarship and a record of significant professional achievement. To be considered for induction, which is for lifetime, students must be a junior or senior physics student in good standing, having completed a least one 300-level or higher physics course, have a GPA in the major (physics) of 3.0 or better, be in the top third of Carthage students with overall GPA, and have presented original physics research in some physics forum.

Academics at Carthage

Prospective Students

Research Opportunities

Summer Undergraduate Research Experience leads to real world success. Read more.

Best Practices

When it comes to preparing undergraduate physics students for careers, Carthage is among the best in the country, according to the AIP. Read more.