Overview

The Applied Physics programme at University of California, Santa Cruz provides students with a deep understanding of the fundamental laws governing the universe. This curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical physics and practical application, ensuring graduates are prepared for diverse professional environments. Students engage with complex systems to develop analytical skills essential for modern scientific challenges.

Why Applied Physics at University of California, Santa Cruz?

Studying at this institution allows students to explore specialised pathways, including a dedicated concentration in Computational Physics. The department is recognised for its focus on discovering fundamental regularities and applying them to explain the behaviour of both basic and intricate systems. This major serves as an excellent springboard for both immediate industrial careers and advanced graduate-level studies.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 37602 per year
National fee: USD 37602 per year
Local fee: USD 16785 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum covers essential physical principles and mathematical applications. Modules may include:

Quantum Mechanics
Optics
Thermodynamics
Materials Science
Computational Physics
Physics

Careers with Applied Physics

Graduates from this programme are well-equipped for a variety of technical and professional roles across multiple sectors. The analytical rigour of the course prepares students for high-level problem-solving in both the public and private spheres. Many alumni pursue further academic research or enter specialised professional schools to expand their expertise.

Common career paths and industries for graduates include:

Applied Physics Research
Computer Hardware and Software
Engineering and Medical Physics
Patent Law and Professional Schools
Business and Industry
Education

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Modern Physics
Mathematical Methods in Physics
Physics for Everyone
Research
Mathematics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-30 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Cruz, United States

Disciplines

Physics Mathematics Applied Mathematics View 322 other Bachelors in Applied Mathematics in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

3.0 GPA For California residents

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

You must achieve a minimum GPA of 3.00 in the "a–g" courses.

Non-residents must earn a minimum GPA of 3.40.

Take the ACT Plus Writing or the SAT with Essay

The ACT Assessment plus the ACT Writing Test or the SAT with critical reading, mathematics, and writing scores from the same sitting.

Proof of English Proficiency

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

37602 USD / year

≈ 37602 USD / year
Out-of-State

37602 USD / year

≈ 37602 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

16785 USD / year

≈ 16785 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Cruz

United States

1710 - 2560 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Applied Physics.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Cruz

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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