Welcome to the Department of Physics and Astronomy!
This past year has been difficult for all of us. Most of our courses were virtual, and our labs were held outdoors. While our summer session physics courses will continue online, we expect to return to fully in-person instruction for the fall 2021 semester. Our other activities—like physics club, telescope nights, seminars & events—as well as office staffing are also expected to return to their pre-pandemic state.
During our transition to fully in-person activities, our faculty and staff remain available via email and phone and will get back to you promptly. While we are maintaining a department office presence, someone may not be available when you arrive; please email or call to arrange an appointment. Students needing course permits or who have other questions related to introductory physics courses should email Ms. Kinga Picerno. Physics majors needing assistance should contact their assigned physics faculty advisor (or contact me if you do not yet have an advisor).
We continue to welcome new physics majors including transfer students. Please review our Why Study Physics, Degree Programs, and Student Advising webpages. Then contact me via email to discuss further about joining the physics major.
While the COVID-19 pandemic is improving in our area, it is not yet over. Get vaccinated and continue to follow campus, state, and CDC policies regarding masks and social distancing.
Prof. Marc Favata, Chairperson, Physics & Astronomy
(2 June 2021)
From the big bang and black holes to atoms and photons, Physics and Astronomy are about studying nature on a fundamental level, from scales large to small. Curious about how the world works? Interested in gaining an incredible skill set that will make you attractive to a wide range of employers? Join us!
Department research areas include gravitational waves, fluid mechanics, experimental optics, astrophysics, and science education. Student research opportunities are available. Learn more and get involved!
Professor Ghosh awarded $150k NSF grant to connect gravitational waves and electromagnetic astronomyTuesday July 20, 2021
Scientists Observe Collisions of Neutron Stars with Black HolesThree Montclair State professors are part of international team behind first detection of long-sought class of stellar mergersTuesday June 29, 2021
A roar, a crash and a major scientific tool that was a piece of New Jersey’s roots is goneDr. Marc Favata discusses the Arecibo Observatory, a radio telescope in Puerto Rico, that recently collapsed due to damages.Friday December 4, 2020
Physics adds new dual-degree options in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Math, Business, and TeachingGreat options for new students and transfers to get their BS in Physics and a Master's degreeThursday September 24, 2020
Useful info for majors, prospective majors, and intro physics students.
Join our student-faculty community! All interested in physics are welcome!
See our schedule of department seminars and other public events.
Opportunities for merit and need-based assistance.
| Name | Title | Location | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marc Favata | Chairperson | Richardson Hall, 213 | 973-655-4406 | favatam@montclair.edu |
| Kinga Picerno | Program Associate | Richardson Hall, 213 | 973-655-7794 | picernok@montclair.edu |
Need a course permit? Click here.
Need tutoring help with your physics classes? Click here.