Physics
The fundamental laws that govern matter, energy, and the universe.
Physics studies the fundamental rules governing everything from subatomic particles to galaxies, mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and relativity. It's one of the most mathematically demanding majors, since physical theories are expressed and tested through mathematical models.
Lab work builds experimental skills (measurement, instrumentation, error analysis) alongside the heavily theoretical coursework, and many programs offer research opportunities in areas like astrophysics, condensed matter, or particle physics.
Typical courses you might take
- ✓Classical Mechanics
- ✓Electricity & Magnetism
- ✓Thermodynamics & Statistical Mechanics
- ✓Quantum Mechanics
- ✓Modern Physics
- ✓Mathematical Methods for Physicists
- ✓Laboratory Physics (multiple semesters)
- ✓Undergraduate Research or Thesis
Sample four-year plan
Illustrative, not a registration planOne possible way these courses could be sequenced alongside general education and elective credit. Real programs vary in order, pacing, and prerequisites by school, use this to get a rough sense of the arc, not to plan actual registration.
- ✓Classical Mechanics
- +General education requirement
- ✓Electricity & Magnetism
- +General education requirement
- ✓Thermodynamics & Statistical Mechanics
- +General education requirement
- ✓Quantum Mechanics
- +Free elective
- ✓Modern Physics
- +Free elective
- ✓Mathematical Methods for Physicists
- +Elective in the major (or minor coursework)
- ✓Laboratory Physics (multiple semesters)
- +Elective in the major (or minor coursework)
- ✓Undergraduate Research or Thesis
- +Capstone, thesis, or culminating project (common in many programs)
Skills you'll build
This major might be a good fit if you...
- ★Very strong in math and drawn to fundamental 'why' questions
- ★Comfortable with abstract theory and heavy problem sets
- ★Persistent through long, difficult problem-solving
- ★Interested in research, engineering, or further graduate study
Common minors & double-major pairings
Mathematics · Computer Science · Astronomy
Roles this major could lead to
Factual, day-to-day descriptions from our Career Role Encyclopedia, not a guarantee this major leads to any specific job.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Physics major?
The fundamental laws that govern matter, energy, and the universe.
What courses do Physics majors take?
Typical coursework includes classes like Classical Mechanics, Electricity & Magnetism, Thermodynamics & Statistical Mechanics, among others, see the full course list above for this major's typical lineup.
What skills do you build in a Physics program?
Physics coursework typically builds skills like Advanced mathematical modeling, Experimental design and measurement technique, Abstract and theoretical reasoning, Problem-solving with incomplete information.
Is Physics a good major for me?
It tends to be a good fit if signals like "Very strong in math and drawn to fundamental 'why' questions" or "Comfortable with abstract theory and heavy problem sets" describe you. See the full "good fit if you..." list above for more.
What can you do with a Physics degree?
Majors in this field often go on to roles like Research Scientist, Astronomer / Astrophysicist. See our Career Role Encyclopedia for more, a major shapes what you study, not a guarantee of any specific job.
What other majors pair well with Physics?
Common minor or double-major pairings include Mathematics, Computer Science, Astronomy.
How is Physics different from Mathematics?
They're related but distinct. Physics: The fundamental laws that govern matter, energy, and the universe. Mathematics: The study of patterns, structures, and logical proof. Use the compare tool to see courses and skills side by side.
How long does it take to earn a Physics degree?
Most bachelor's degrees, including this one, are designed to be completed in about four years of full-time study. Exact timing depends on your school, course load, transfer credit, and any changes of major along the way.
Printed from majoratlas.com/majors/physics