What it is
Physics is the most fundamental science — the study of matter, energy, motion, force, and the laws that govern the universe, from subatomic particles to galaxies. It builds exceptional analytical and mathematical power that transfers across science, engineering, tech, and finance.
What you'll study
Physics is deeply mathematical and theoretical:
- Year 1–2Introductory physics (mechanics, E&M), calculus, differential equations
- Year 2–3Classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, modern physics
- Year 3–4Quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, labs, and research
Concentrations & focus areas
- Theoretical PhysicsFundamental theory
- Experimental / Applied PhysicsLab and applications
- AstrophysicsThe cosmos
- Condensed MatterMaterials & devices
- Particle / NuclearFundamental particles
- Medical / Health PhysicsPhysics in medicine
Skills you'll build
- Advanced mathExceptional quantitative skill
- Problem-solvingModeling complex systems
- Computational skillsSimulation and analysis
- Experimental designRigorous testing
- Abstract reasoningFirst-principles thinking
Careers & job titles
- Physicist / research scientistWith a PhD (research/academia)
- Data scientist / quantFinance and tech (very common)
- Engineer / applied scientistIndustry R&D
- Medical / health physicistHealthcare
- Software / computational rolesTech
- Teacher / professorEducation
Job outlook & demand
The BLS projects physicists and astronomers to grow faster than average, though the pure "physicist" occupation is small and PhD-level. A huge share of physics graduates go into data science, quantitative finance, engineering, and tech — where their analytical skills command strong pay.
Pay: median, range & trajectory
Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025), physicists had a median of $172,250 (among the highest of any field; PhD typical). Physics graduates in data/quant/tech roles also earn well; bachelor's-level physics is highly versatile.
Degree levels it's offered at
Offered across these levels — click a level to learn about it:
A bachelor's is a powerful, versatile quantitative degree (great for tech/finance/engineering); a PhD is required for research physicist and academic roles.
Is it right for you?
You might thrive here if you love understanding how the universe works, excel at math, and enjoy hard problems. It's demanding but opens unusually wide doors.
Key insight: most physics graduates don't become "physicists" — they leverage the degree's analytical firepower in data science, quant finance, engineering, and tech. For research physics, plan on a PhD.
Explore further
Keep exploring:
Key facts
- StudiesMatter, energy, and the laws of the universe
- StudyMechanics, E&M, quantum & statistical mechanics, math
- CareersPhysicist (PhD), data scientist, quant, engineer, tech
- OutlookFaster than average (BLS)
- Pay$172,250 median physicists (BLS); versatile degree
Where to learn more
Authoritative sources for careers and pay: