Physics
What are physics majors?
Physics programs focus on the scientific study of matter and energy as well as the formulation and testing of the laws governing the behavior of the matter-energy continuum. Coursework includes instruction in classical and modern physics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, mechanics, wave properties, nuclear processes, relativity and quantum theory, quantitative methods and laboratory methods.
How much do physics majors make?
| Physics majors | Average salarySalary |
|---|---|
| General physics | $100,000 |
| Astronomy and astrophysics | $85,500 |
Popular physics majors by degrees awarded
On average, around 10,300 students obtain a bachelor's degree or associate degree in all physics fields each year. In 2021, the most popular major within physics was general physics with 8,305 students obtaining a bachelor's degree and 1,630 students obtaining an associate degree. The least popular major was astronomy and astrophysics with 979 students obtaining a bachelor's degree and 23 students obtaining an associate degree. Overall, physics is a relatively uncommon area of study.
