Nuclear Physics
A program that focuses on the scientific study of the properties and behavior of atomic nuclei. Includes instruction in nuclear reaction theory, quantum mechanics, energy conservation, nuclear fission and fusion, strong and weak forces, nuclear modeling, nuclear decay, nucleon scattering, pairing, photon and electron reactions, the physics of nuclear effects, statistical methods, and research equipment operation and maintenance.
- Schools offering
- 1
- Annual completions
- 1
- Typical degree level
- Bachelor's
- Median earnings (5yr)
- $80k
About this major
A program that focuses on the scientific study of the properties and behavior of atomic nuclei. Includes instruction in nuclear reaction theory, quantum mechanics, energy conservation, nuclear fission and fusion, strong and weak forces, nuclear modeling, nuclear decay, nucleon scattering, pairing, photon and electron reactions, the physics of nuclear effects, statistical methods, and research equipment operation and maintenance.
Examples of specialized tracks: Nuclear Effects.
Where this major leads
Occupations most often associated with this major, from the federal BLS+O*NET crosswalk. Job-growth projections and median wages are national.
| Occupation | Median wage | Job growth | Typical education |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural sciences managers | $161k | +3.7% | Bachelor's degree |
| Physicists | $166k | +4.0% | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Physics teachers, postsecondary | $97k | +2.5% | Doctoral or professional degree |
Earnings at a glance
Median graduate earnings from the federal College Scorecard, 5 and 10 years out.
Median 5-year earnings
$80k
Associate's vs Bachelor's — early-career earnings
Associate's
$74k
Bachelor's
$80k
Top colleges for Nuclear Physics
Ranked by annual completions at the associate's or bachelor's level — a proxy for program scale.
| College | Location | Assoc. | Bach. | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Tech University | Russellville, AR | 0 | 1 | 1 |
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Considering this direction?
We've taken a hard look at the debt, earnings trajectory, and degree-level tradeoffs for the Nuclear Physics field. Read our verdict before you commit.
Is Nuclear Physics worth it? Read verdict