Engineering Physics
Many of the complex problems you’ll find throughout the world need interdisciplinary solutions, which is why many students choose a major that combines multiple fields. That’s exactly what you’ll find with engineering physics, which is designed for students who want an in-depth understanding of fundamental physics—plus the problem-solving skills of an engineer. As an added bonus, engineering physics lets you keep your options open between physical sciences and engineering, whether you’re going to grad school or straight into your career.
What will I learn?
Engineering physics is a combination of electrical engineering and physics, which means you'll typically start by taking courses and labs such as calculus, chemistry and physics, as well as some general curriculum classes. You’ll then move on to more advanced physics and math courses, gaining new computational skills and experience that lets you solve increasingly complex problems. In your junior and senior years, you’ll appreciate a combination of fundamental electrical engineering classes, upper-level physics classes and electives, all designed to prepare you for whatever comes next.
What can I do with an engineering physics degree?
Most students in this program go to graduate school for applied physics, electrical engineering or a related field, and then enjoy a career as a teacher, professor and/or researcher. These types of positions are often available in high schools, colleges, universities, national research labs and private companies.
Many high-tech organizations look for people who have expertise in both engineering and physics, which means you may find opportunities in a variety of fields, including:
- Aerospace.
- Alternative fuels.
- Astrophysics.
- Automotive engineering.
- Biomedical.
- Biophysics.
- Construction.
- Fiber optics.
- Health care.
- Industrial research.
- Lasers.
- Medical physics.
- Microelectronics.
- Nanotechnology.
- Nuclear physics.
- Optical systems.
- Particle accelerators.
- Quantum computing.
- Power generation.
- Renewable energy.
- Transportation.
- Semiconductors.
Whether you want to work for a private company, government organization or a university, or go to grad school, this program is designed to give you options.
By the Numbers
Check out salary ranges and career outlooks straight from the U.S. Department of Labor to see the return on investment for your degree.
| Occupation Title | Mean Annual Wage | Mean Hourly Wage | Future Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $113,360.00 | N/A | Rapid Growth |
| Natural Sciences Managers | $87,060.00 | $41.86 | Rapid Growth |
| Engineers, All Other | $156,770.00 | $75.37 | |
| Physicists | $56,890.00 | $27.35 | Rapid Growth |
| Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary | $65,040.00 | $31.27 | Rapid Growth |
Data provided by the and DOL data from 2024.