Overview

The Physics programme at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) provides students with a rigorous foundation in physical principles and mathematical methods. This curriculum is designed to foster deep analytical skills, enabling graduates to tackle complex challenges in industrial research, programming, and academia. Students benefit from a flexible structure that allows for customisation through various specialisations and concentrations.

Why Physics at University of California, Irvine (UCI)?

The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers a versatile learning environment where students can choose between pure and applied pathways. The university provides specialised concentrations in Computational Physics, Philosophy of Physics, and Physics Education, alongside a dedicated Astrophysics track. Undergraduates have access to advanced research opportunities, including an Honours programme that involves completing a senior thesis under faculty supervision. Mandatory advisory meetings ensure that every student aligns their academic choices with their professional aspirations and aptitudes.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 56682 per year
National fee: USD 56682 per year
Local fee: USD 19080 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum balances theoretical mastery with experimental practice, covering classical and modern physical phenomena. Modules may include:

Classical Physics
Mathematical Physics
Experimental Physics
Thermal Physics
Modern Physics
Classical Mechanics
Electromagnetic Theory
Quantum Mechanics
Statistical Physics

Students in the Computational Physics concentration also undertake training in numerical analysis and software development, while those in the Astrophysics track focus on observational techniques and stellar evolution.

Careers with Physics

Graduates from the University of California, Irvine (UCI) are well-equipped for a broad range of professional sectors. The analytical rigour of the programme prepares students for roles in industrial research, applications programming, and secondary education. Furthermore, the degree serves as a robust platform for those pursuing legal or business careers that require quantitative expertise. Many alumni continue their academic journeys by entering prestigious graduate programmes in astronomy, biomedical physics, engineering, or theoretical physics.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Single-Variable Calculus

Classical Physics

Multivariable Calculus

Linear Algebra

Experimental Physics

Thermal Physics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Irvine, United States

Disciplines

Physics View 1436 other Bachelors in Physics in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

You must receive a 3.0 GPA (3.4 for non-California residents) or higher in the 15 required “a-g” subject courses, with no grade lower than a C.

UCI will not consider SAT or ACT scores for admission or scholarship purposes. After enrollment, exams may be used for class placement or some graduation requirements.

Personal Insight Questions (your personal insight questions should be exactly that – personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, what matters to you, your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, and inspirations. Key points about the personal insight questions include: freshman applicants choose four out of eight questions to answer, each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words. We encourage you to take your time. Be open, be reflective, and be honest. Your personal insight questions provide context for the rest of your application.)

English proficiency requirements

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

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Out-of-State

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

19080 USD / year

≈ 19080 USD / year

Living costs

Irvine

United States

1560 - 2585 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 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

Irvine

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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