Physics
College of Letters and Science
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Science
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Master of Arts
How does the universe work? How do we know? From the basic laws of physics to the resulting emergent behavior, physics studies what the universe is made of and how it works. As a physics major at °×С½ãÍõÖÐÍõ¿ª½±½á¹û, you will have the opportunity to join with our faculty in research that pushes forward the frontier of knowledge. This research ranges from the very smallest elementary particles to the matter that surrounds us to the structure and evolution of the entire universe.
Major 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.
Contact Information
Careers
- Research and Development Specialist
- Patent Lawyer
- Marine/Oceanographic Scientist
- Aerospace Engineer
- State Department Engineer
- High School Teacher
Graduate Study
- Physics
- Atmospheric studies
- Law
- Medical physics
- Oceanography
- Engineering
Alumni Employers
- State of California
- DreamWorks Studios
- Microsoft
- Sandia Corp.
- Subaru Telescope
- General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.
![Students smile and listen in a lecture.](/sites/default/files/styles/sf_landscape_4x3/public/media/images/majors-aggie-first-year-uc-davis.jpg?h=252f27fa&itok=09wZD_15)
Your course roadmap
Find the detailed course requirements for your program and map out your path to graduation.
![Two people in safety goggles inspect a test.](/sites/default/files/styles/sf_landscape_4x3/public/media/images/majors-wind-tunnel-uc-davis.jpg?h=252f27fa&itok=uiaOaRWV)
The faculty you will work with
Our undergraduates work directly with our faculty through research projects and labs.
![study abroad student explores europe](/sites/default/files/styles/sf_landscape_4x3/public/media/images/study-abroad-programs-uc-davis.jpg?h=b4e301e9&itok=1hNfC6Ch)
Global learning programs
Expand your horizons by studying abroad or pursuing global learning on campus.
![rebecca hernandez examines plants as part of her energy ecology work](/sites/default/files/styles/sf_landscape_4x3/public/media/images/rebecca-hernandez-stem.jpg?h=1cce0a37&itok=IgK7_Ni1)
Undergraduate research
Get hands on with your interests. Participate in one of our hundreds of research opportunities.
![A student wears a cap and gown.](/sites/default/files/styles/sf_landscape_4x3/public/media/images/majors-nursing-graduation-uc-davis.jpg?h=252f27fa&itok=yDTpsyF-)
What can I do with my physics major?
Learn how to connect your physics major to career opportunities.