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Engineering physics (EP), sometimesengineering science, is thefield of study combiningpure science disciplines (such asphysics,mathematics,chemistry orbiology) andengineering disciplines (computer,nuclear,electrical,aerospace,medical,materials,mechanical, etc.).[1][2][3]
In many languages, the termtechnical physics is also used.It has been used since 1861 by the German physics teacherJ. Frick [de] in his publications.[4]
In some countries, both what would be translated as "engineering physics" and what would be translated as "technical physics" are disciplines leading to academic degrees. In China, for example, with the former specializing in nuclear power research (i.e.nuclear engineering), and the latter closer to engineering physics.[5]
In some universities and their institutions, an engineering physics (or applied physics) major is a discipline or specialization within the scope of engineering science, orapplied science.[6][7][8][9]
Several related names have existed since the inception of the interdisciplinary field. For example, some university courses are called or contain the phrase "physical technologies" or "physical engineering sciences" or "physical technics". In some cases, a program formerly called "physical engineering" has been renamed "applied physics" or has evolved into specialized fields such as "photonics engineering".
Unlike traditional engineering disciplines, engineering science or engineering physics is not necessarily confined to a particular branch of science, engineering or physics. Instead, engineering science or engineering physics is meant to provide a more thorough grounding inapplied physics for a selected specialty such asoptics,quantum physics,materials science,applied mechanics,electronics,nanotechnology,microfabrication,microelectronics,computing,photonics,mechanical engineering,electrical engineering,nuclear engineering,biophysics,control theory,aerodynamics,energy,solid-state physics, etc. It is the discipline devoted to creating and optimizing engineering solutions through enhanced understanding and integrated application of mathematical, scientific, statistical, and engineering principles. The discipline is also meant for cross-functionality and bridges the gap between theoretical science and practical engineering with emphasis inresearch and development, design, and analysis.
In many universities, engineering science programs may be offered at the levels of B.Tech.,B.Sc.,M.Sc. andPh.D. Usually, a core of basic and advanced courses inmathematics,physics,chemistry, andbiology forms the foundation of thecurriculum, while typical elective areas may includefluid dynamics,quantum physics,economics,plasma physics,relativity,solid mechanics,operations research,quantitative finance, information technology and engineering,dynamical systems,bioengineering,environmental engineering, computational engineering,engineering mathematics andstatistics,solid-state devices,materials science,electromagnetism,nanoscience,nanotechnology,energy, andoptics.
There are awards for excellence in engineering physics. For example,Princeton University'sJeffrey O. Kephart '80 Prize is awarded annually to the graduating senior with the best record.[10] Since 2002, theGerman Physical Society has awarded theGeorg-Simon-Ohm-Preis for outstanding research in this field.[11]
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