- Science & Math
- B.S.
- M.S.
- Ph.D.
- Undergraduate Minor
- Physical and Biological Sciences
- Physics
Program overview
Physics seeks to discover the fundamental regularities or “laws” that govern our universe and to apply these laws to explain the behavior of fundamental and complex systems. The Physics Department offers majors in physics, physics (astrophysics), and applied physics. Physics major students have an option to complete the Quantum Information Science concentration, while applied physics students are offered the Computational Physics concentration. These programs prepare students for graduate work in physics, astrophysics and astronomy, for engineering and other technical positions in industry, and for careers in education. With appropriate courses in other disciplines, these majors provide excellent preparation for advanced study in technical subjects such as biology, chemistry, engineering, geophysics, and the philosophy of science. The applied physics major is excellent preparation for positions in industry directly upon graduation.
For more information about the physics (astrophysics) program requirements, please see the program description in the General Catalog.
Learning Experience
Astrophysics students and faculty use a number of UCSC research facilities: The Theoretical Astrophysics Santa Cruz (TASC) Institute, University of California Observatories (headquartered at UCSC), and the Supercomputing Laboratory for Undergraduates (SLUG). Lick Observatory, home to the first automated planet-finding telescope, provides additional local research opportunities.
Astronomy and Astrophysics Research
Study and Research Opportunities
- B.S., M.S., Ph.D., undergraduate minor, and a combined B.S./M.S. degree
- The number of research opportunities for physics undergraduates is exceptionally high.
- Within upper-division classes we offer a wide array of labs, including astronomical labs where students operate UC telescopes, and computational labs where students write their own codes.
- The senior thesis requirement enables students to interact professionally with faculty in a research environment.
- The California Teach program at UCSC supports student outreach, advises students, and arranges teaching internships for Science Education.
First-Year Requirements
High school students coming directly to UCSC should emphasize their math preparation with the expectation that they will take the calculus course Math 19A in their first quarter at UCSC in order to start taking Physics 5, calculus based physics series, in their second quarter. First- year students who successfully completed AP calculus in high school with a suitable score, will be given credit for Math 19A and be able to start Physics 5 in their first quarter. Students are recommended to take a physics course in high school if it is available, preferably at the AP level.
Transfer Requirements
This is a screening major. Students transferring to UCSC as junior physics, astrophysics, or applied physics majors should have completed the equivalent of three quarters of introductory calculus-based physics with laboratory and the equivalent of three quarters of calculus. It is also desirable to have an introductory course in modern physics as well as mathematics courses in linear algebra, vector calculus, and differential equations. The Physics Department advises each junior transfer student individually upon their arrival.
Internships and Career Opportunities
- Physics and astronomy research
- Business and industry
- Computer hardware and software
- Education
- Engineering
- Professional schools
- Patent law
These are only samples of the field’s many possibilities.
Program Contact
apartment Interdisciplinary Sciences Building, Rm 211
email physicsadvising@ucsc.edu
phone (831) 459-3744