Physics and Engineering Physics at ITS: Two Academic Paths with Different Orientations

ITS Campus, DTF Opinion — Many prospective students still consider Physics and Engineering Physics to be the same field. In fact, both have fundamentally different learning orientations, approaches, and competency outcomes. Understanding this difference is essential before choosing a study program.

Physics is a discipline oriented toward mastering fundamental concepts. Students study mechanics, waves, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, and modern physics in depth using mathematical and experimental approaches. The emphasis lies on understanding theory, scientific proof, and exploring natural phenomena. Physics graduates generally contribute to research, scientific development, as well as academic and educational fields.

On the other hand, Engineering Physics has a different focus. Physics principles are used as a foundation to design and control real systems in industry. Students not only study concepts, but also learn instrumentation, control systems, automation, system modeling, and energy management. The learning orientation is directed toward applicative and measurable technical solutions.

While Physics focuses on answering questions about how the laws of nature work, Engineering Physics focuses on how those laws are utilized to optimize systems. Engineering Physics students are trained to integrate sensors, actuators, software, and control strategies into a single unified system. This integrative approach shapes a system thinker mindset capable of seeing inter-variable connections comprehensively.

In higher education, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) provides Engineering Physics education through the Department of Engineering Physics (DTF) ITS with a system engineering-based curriculum. Students gain learning experiences through control laboratories, industrial process simulations, and real-problem-based projects. An applicative academic environment strengthens graduates’ readiness to enter the industrial sector directly.

Engineering Physics graduates have career opportunities in energy, manufacturing, oil and gas, smart building systems, and data-driven industries. Expertise in system control and optimization enables them to play a role in maintaining efficiency, safety, and sustainability in industrial operations. Meanwhile, Physics graduates are more involved in fundamental research and scientific theory development. Both pathways are equally important, but have different directions of contribution.

For prospective students interested in applying science in the form of technical solutions and industrial system engineering, Engineering Physics is the right choice. Education combining theory and practice opens opportunities to develop competencies relevant to industrial transformation needs. DTF ITS invites the young generation to join and develop their potential as future system engineers. (*)

Reporter: Shafa Annisa Ramadhani