Thinking about majoring in physics but not sure what that actually means? Physics is one of the most fascinating — and flexible — majors out there.
So... what is a physics major?
At its core, physics is the study of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature. As a physics major, you'll explore topics like motion, gravity, electricity, magnetism, thermodynamics, and quantum mechanics. It’s about asking big questions — and finding real answers through logic and experimentation.
Classes and concentrations: what will I actually study?
Physics majors typically start with core classes like:
- Classical mechanics
- Electricity and magnetism
- Thermodynamics
- Quantum physics
- Calculus and differential equations
Later on, you might specialize in areas like astrophysics, particle physics, or applied physics. Some schools even offer computational physics or biophysics tracks.
How do I know if physics is for me?
If you’ve ever stayed up late wondering how black holes work or why time slows down near the speed of light — you’re in the right place. But loving science isn’t enough. Physics is math-heavy and mentally intense. You’ll need patience, creativity, and a genuine curiosity for how things work.
What skills will I learn as a physics major?
You’ll learn how to model real-world systems, crunch numbers, write code, and design experiments. Employers love physics grads because they’re analytical, resilient, and think way outside the box.
Types of physics degrees
You can earn a:
- BA in Physics: More flexible with room for liberal arts or a second major
- BS in Physics: More technical and math-intensive
Some schools even offer 3+2 programs where you earn a physics degree and an engineering degree in five years.
Double majors and minors that work well with physics
Popular combos include:
Careers in physics: what can I do with it?
Physics majors aren’t locked into lab coats. Here are just a few paths:
- Research scientist
- Engineer (aerospace, mechanical, electrical)
- Data analyst or data scientist
- Software developer
- Medical physicist
- Patent examiner
Some physics grads also go on to law school, med school, or finance careers. The options are wide open.
How much can I earn with a physics degree?
Starting out with just a bachelor’s, you might see salaries around $60,000 to $70,000, depending on the job. But if you stick with it and go for a master’s or Ph.D., especially if you land a role in research, tech, or even finance, your salary can jump way higher.
Physicists working in research or for the government can make well over six figures—the median salary for physicists is actually over $150,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. So yeah, physics can absolutely pay off if you’re willing to put in the work.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, April 2025
Notable schools for physics majors
Some standout programs include:
But you don’t need to go Ivy or bust. Tons of state schools and liberal arts colleges have amazing physics programs. Use Scout College Search to explore your options.
Physics scholarships: yes, they exist
College isn’t cheap, but physics majors can apply for major-specific scholarships to help lighten the load. Start with opportunities like scholarships for physics majors, or try tools like Scholly Scholarships, which filters scholarships by criteria like GPA, no-essay, state, and more. You can also check out the $2k No Essay Scholarship and explore a variety of options through scholarships by major.
Majoring in physics means unlocking a whole new way of understanding the world — and yourself. Whether you dream of discovering the next particle or building future tech, physics can take you there. It’s not easy, but it’s 100% worth it.
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