Major and minor
Ranging from microscopic subatomic particles to galaxies with billions of stars, physics studies the universe’s composition and functionality. As a Physics major at UC Davis, students will learn about our present understanding of the universe, ranging from the very smallest distances associated with elementary particle physics through nanophysics and superconductivity, to the structure and evolution of the entire universe. By encapsulating mathematical, technological, and theoretical elements, Physics majors are able to explain complex natural phenomena; additionally, having knowledge of physics acts as a touchstone for understanding other natural sciences, such as biology and chemistry. Students have the ability to choose between an A.B. or B.S. degree — meaning that Physics majors are able to apply their skills in a variety of industries even beyond other natural sciences: computer science, astrophysics, engineering, and laboratory administration are all possible careers.
Real World Outcomes
Physics majors pursue careers and graduate study in a broad range of fields. A.B. majors often enter such areas as teaching at the pre-college level, management and administration in industrial laboratories and government agencies or production and sales in industry. B.S. majors are well prepared to continue their study of physics at the graduate level; many also study such related fields as astrophysics and astronomy, biophysics, computer science and materials science.
Requirements
Physics majors begin with a sequence of courses in classical and modern physics along with six quarters of calculus and other mathematics. After the initial preparation, you will be ready for more advanced courses in dynamics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, optics, nuclear and particle physics, condensed matter physics, cosmology, and advanced experimental techniques.
