Cooperative Engineering students at the University of St. Thomas - Houston conduct research in the labEngineers are creators and inventors who solve complex, real-world problems using science and math. For every building constructed and new technology invented, an engineer has left their mark. Will you be next?

Engineering Physics prepares students to solve challenges in Engineering with Applied Physics and viceversa. The BS Engineering Physics program is ideal for students who have an interest in both fields and seek employment in engineering disciplines that require a deeper knowledge of physical principles, such as aerospace, nanotechnology, computing and nuclear science or those students who intend to pursue a graduate degree in Engineering. The program provides students with a solid foundation in physics, mathematics, problem solving and engineering design skills. You’ll enjoy an array of opportunities— from traditional classroom and laboratory settings, to hands-on research and design experiences.

Apply to UST’s Engineering program to make a lasting impact on the world.

As a Pre-Engineering student, you'll have the opportunity to earn two degrees in five years, a B.S. in the engineering discipline of your choice from a partner or collaborating school and a B.S. in Engineering Physics from UST.
Degrees OfferedDegrees Offered

Female student in Cooperative Engineering lab class at the University of St. Thomas - HoustonFollowing a 3/2 plan, you'll study for three years at UST, building a foundational knowledge of engineering and science while gaining a quality liberal arts education. During this time, you'll follow an individualized plan that includes the prerequisites needed for the engineering program at your chosen school.

You'll then transfer to complete the last two years of your engineering degree at one of our partner schools. We have well-established articulation agreements with the University of Notre Dame and the Catholic University of America. You can also transfer to a collaborating school in Texas after three years or choose to complete your education at UST and graduate with a BS Engineering-Physics degree after four years.

Complete your engineering degree at one of UST's partner schools:

  • Catholic University of America
  • University of Notre Dame

Engineering Physics is a relatively new field in engineering. If you have a strong interest in both engineering and physics, this program prepares you to design, develop and apply new solutions in engineering, from research and development to education, medicine, law and business. The program culminates with Capstone Engineering Design classes in the 4th year, where you’ll work in a small group on one project from idea to design to realization.

learn more about Engineering Physics

This program is best if you want to earn two engineering degrees, one from UST and one from a partner school. After completing 3 years in the B.S. in Engineering Physics program at UST, you can complete your engineering degree at a partner school, then apply for a UST degree as well.

degree plan
Your SuccessYour Success
Houston Boats the Highest Annual Median Wage for STEM Workers Houston Boats the Highest Annual Median Wage for STEM Workers
#1
City in U.S.

FOR STEM SALARIES

Source: WalletHub

Jobs for STEM Professionals Will Expand 1.7x Faster than Non-STEM Occupations from 2010–2020 Jobs for STEM Professionals Will Expand 1.7x Faster than Non-STEM Occupations from 2010–2020
170%
Faster Job Growth

THAN NON-STEM JOBS

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

STEM Jobs Average Annual Salary Is $85,570, 81% Higher than Average for All Jobs STEM Jobs Average Annual Salary Is $85,570, 81% Higher than Average for All Jobs
$85,570
Annual Median Salary

FOR STEM JOBS IN U.S.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Nationwide Demand For Engineers

Logos of companies where alumni of University of St. Thomas - Houston Cooperative Engineering program work Nationwide, engineers are in high demand, and our Pre-Engineering students can choose from a wide variety of specialties, including chemical, civil, electrical, industrial, mechanical, nuclear and technological engineering.

Choosing UST’s BS Engineering Physics program opens up a future of excellent job opportunities right around the corner. UST is located at the epicenter of the job market for engineers. Not only does Texas boast the #1 average median salary for STEM careers, Houston, the energy capital of the world, is the #2 job market for engineers in the United States, according to Forbes Magazine.

where can studying engineering take me?

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$3 M Title V Grant
$3 M Title V Grant
$3 M Title V Grant

UST receives $3 million Title V grant to expand engineering career opportunities for Hispanic students.

learn more$3 M Title V Grant
Why UST?Why UST?
Small Class Sizes
Cooperative Engineering professor Dr. Birgit Mellis teaches a class at the University of St. Thomas - Houston
With a low student to faculty ratio, at UST you will get focused instruction, plenty of opportunities to interact with faculty one on one and personal attention from seasoned professors helping you to succeed in your chosen career goals.
Hands On Experience
Student conducts Cooperative Engineering research at the University of St. Thomas - Houston
Abundant opportunity to perform laboratories and participate in undergraduate research to get the tools you need to be successful in an engineering career.
Design Oriented Program
Two female Cooperative Engineering students conduct research at the University of St. Thomas - Houston
From your first year as an engineering physics student, the curriculum is focused on developing fundamental problem-solving skills, honing critical thinking abilities, and following the engineering design process through a number of design related courses.
Joe Bedell, University of St. Thomas - Houston BA in Mathematics 2014

UST prepared me for the challenges of engineering school, and helped me grow mentally and spiritually.

Joe Bedell TEST ANALYST, QUANTITECH | UST B.A. IN MATHEMATICS, 2014; UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME B.S. IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING, 2014

Women in Engineering Shine at UST
  • Over 30% of the students in UST’s physics and engineering program are women, remarkable among universities.
  • Half the UST physics and engineering faculty members are women, serving as strong role models for women in engineering careers.
  • Studying and working alongside other women helps you visualize your own success, making you more competitive as a woman in science.
 

50% of physics minors at the University of St. Thomas - Houston are women​

Physics and engineering faculty members are women.
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