undergraduate
General physics
Best schools with general physics
What is a general physics major?
A plan of study that focuses on the scientific study of matter and energy, and the formulation and testing of the laws governing the behavior of the matter-energy continuum. Includes instruction in classical and modern physics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, mechanics, wave properties, nuclear processes, relativity and quantum theory, quantitative methods, and laboratory methods.
How much do general physics majors make?
median average salary
$100,000/yr
The national average salary for general physics graduates in the United States is $100,000 per year. Those in the top 10 percent make over $240,000 a year, while the bottom 10 percent make under $30,000 a year. While salary ranges can vary by role, industry, and location, general physics graduates typically make between $60,000 and $154,000 per year.
How popular is general physics as a major?
Each year, around 8,210 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 1,340 students obtain an associate degree in general physics. In 2021, 8,305 students received a bachelor's degree and 1,630 students received an associate degree. This is 2% fewer general physics majors than there were in 2020. General physics is one of the most popular majors within physics.
