Physics and Astronomy
A program that focuses on the scientific study of the theories that explain the fundamental structure of our world and the universe and which draws from physics and astronomy. Includes instruction in astronomy, calculus, cosmology, differential equations, electricity, magnetism, data analysis, physics, quantum mechanics, space science, spectroscopy, and thermal physics.
- Schools offering
- 5
- Annual completions
- 29
- Typical degree level
- Bachelor's
- Median earnings (5yr)
- —
About this major
A program that focuses on the scientific study of the theories that explain the fundamental structure of our world and the universe and which draws from physics and astronomy. Includes instruction in astronomy, calculus, cosmology, differential equations, electricity, magnetism, data analysis, physics, quantum mechanics, space science, spectroscopy, and thermal physics.
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 |
| Atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences teachers, postsecondary | $101k | +2.6% | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Astronomers | $132k | +2.2% | Doctoral or professional degree |
Earnings at a glance
Median graduate earnings from the federal College Scorecard, 5 and 10 years out.
Earnings data is not yet available at this major's level of granularity. See the concentration hub for family-level figures.
Top colleges for Physics and Astronomy
Ranked by annual completions at the associate's or bachelor's level — a proxy for program scale.
| College | Location | Assoc. | Bach. | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Arizona University | Flagstaff, AZ | 0 | 18 | 18 |
| University of Kentucky | Lexington, KY | 0 | 8 | 8 |
| Whittier College | Whittier, CA | 0 | 3 | 3 |
| Adrian College | Adrian, MI | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Albion College | Albion, MI | 0 | 0 | 0 |
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