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Physics

Grainger College of Engineering

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What is Physics?

Physics is the study of nature that focuses on the properties of matter, energy, space, and time. It is the branch of science that forms the foundation of all natural sciences. Physics is the science behind many everyday technologies, including computers, cell phones, and supermarket scanners. It is also the foundation of great breakthroughs such as lasers, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), particle accelerators, fiber-optic communications, and many others. Physics majors at the University of Illinois earn a Bachelor of Science in Physics. The major provides you with the tools to investigate and analyze scientific mysteries. You'll also develop a deep conceptual and mathematical understanding of the world. Our flexible program will prepare you for a variety of careers, including teaching. It will also allow you to continue your education through graduate study in physics, science, or engineering fields. The curriculum provides a rigorous foundation in physics, mathematics, and laboratory techniques. The comprehensive elective options allow you to tune your individual program of study to suit your interests and career goals.

Career Options

  • Physics
  • Astronomy
  • Atmospheric Sciences
  • Business
  • Engineering
  • Finance
  • Medicine
  • Teaching

Post-Graduation Success1

88% employed or continuing education

39% employed after graduation

49% attending graduate school

$62,989 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: Goldman Sachs, Intel, National Institutes of Health (NIH) View All

Sample grad school destinations: Harvard University, Princeton University, Stanford University View All

Program Resources

Grainger College of Engineering Program Webpage Degree Requirements

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

  • Strong math and science coursework and performance
  • Calculus preferred and physics expected (if available at high school)
  • Strong teamwork and interpersonal communication skills
  • Interest in improving society through engineering
  • Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the engineering major selected

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention2

4.0 years to degree

93% first-year retention rate

71% four-year graduation rate

86% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs3

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $18,372
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $18,884
  • Total: $42,310

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $41,444
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses:$19,224
  • Total: $65,722

International

  • Tuition: $44,688
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $19,224
  • Total: $68,966

Related Majors

1 Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative, which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics are aggregated from the past three years. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website. For average wage or salary information five years after entry into an occupation, visit the Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes Explorer.

2 Graduation and retention data comes from several majors within a similar interest area. Data may not yet be available for newly created programs. Years-to-degree data is only available for programs from which you can earn a degree. Retention and graduation rates are only available for programs that you can apply directly into. Retention rates reflect retention to the university, not necessarily retention within the major.

3 "Expenses" are estimated and include books, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. The exact amount you’ll pay depends on where you decide to live, the meal plan you choose, and your overall lifestyle. To learn more about costs, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid website. To learn the average monthly student loan payment over a period of 20 years based on estimated cost, visit the Illinois College2Career website.

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