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 UC Davis, 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.