Physics

Discovering the fundamental laws of nature and the origin and structure of the universe.

Why, How, What If

In Pursuit of Answers to Big Questions

Here in UT Austin physics, students study in the highest ranked physics program within 1,500 miles—and researchers push the envelope of discovery. With strengths in cosmology, relativity, gravity, plasma and much more, UT physics offers meaningful opportunities in research, class and outreach settings to engage with the most fundamental of all natural sciences.

Visit the department site

The Freshman Research Initiative (FRI) was one of the very unique experiences I had while at UT Austin. I got to actually do science and not just read about it. Getting that very early exposure to work in a lab was really something that helped sustain my passion, and it is one of the reasons I continue doing research today.”

AbdulRaheem Bello

Astronomy and Physics

For Majors

Experiences & Careers

Physics majors at UT Austin do thrilling research alongside faculty studying fusion, plasma, quantum phenomena and the cosmos. They study abroad, venture into summer projects in national labs and embark on entrepreneurial endeavors. Their training prepares them for careers in research, technology and many other areas. Recent grads have job titles like:

  • Propulsion analyst
  • Scientific software developer
  • Surface warfare officer
  • Physicist

Discover physics major career paths

See more opportunities for physics students

In The Texas Scientist

Explore Stories

From laser physics to wielding the world’s most powerful academic supercomputer in theory research, our scientists and students make working with the most fundamental of the sciences memorable. Research here takes you to frontier areas of science, where students team with faculty leaders on some of the largest international experiments in all of science and make fundamental discoveries about the world.

Up close at the first discovery of gravitational waves

Up close at the discovery of the Higgs-Boson

The “twisted physics” driving a potential energy revolution

Study & Learn

All aspects of the physical universe are of interest to the physicist, who seeks to understand not only the smallest forms of matter and the rich phenomena present in our everyday lives but also the universe itself. There are several degree options and a new certificate in Quantum Information Science available to undergraduates, as well as options to pursue graduate study.

Find undergraduate information and examples of courses

Pursuing a graduate degree in physics

Type
C
Academic Program

Evidence and Inquiry

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
N/A
Type
BA
Academic Program

Physics

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
BSA
Academic Program

Physics

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
BSA
Academic Program

Physics

Honors

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
BS
Academic Program

Physics: Option 1

Physics

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
BS
Academic Program

Physics: Option 2

Computation

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
BS
Academic Program

Physics: Option 3

Radiation Physics

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
BS
Academic Program

Physics: Option 4

Space Sciences

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
BS
Academic Program

Physics: Option 5

Teaching, Composite Science Certification

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
BS
Academic Program

Physics: Option 5

Teaching, Physics & Mathematics Certification

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
BS
Academic Program

Physics: Option 5

Teaching, Physical Science Certification

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
BS
Academic Program

Physics: Option 5

Teaching, Math, Physical Science & Engineering Certification

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
BS
Academic Program

Physics: Option 6

Honors

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
BS
Academic Program

Physics: Option 7

Biophysics

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
Type
C
Academic Program

Quantum Information Science

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
N/A
Type
C
Academic Program

UTeach-Natural Sciences Accelerated Track

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
N/A
Type
C
Academic Program

UTeach Natural Sciences Secondary Teaching Option

Year of Entry
2022–2024
Requirements
What to Take When
N/A

Physics News

A piece of scientific equipment lit from the outside by green light. In a window in the side of the equipment, a pink light glows.

Research

Compact Accelerator Technology Achieves Major Energy Milestone

Bjorn “Manuel” Hegelich led the development of a compact laser accelerator that produces an electron beam with an energy of 10 billion electron volts.