Physics seeks to discover the fundamental regularities or “laws” that govern our universe and to apply these laws to explain the behavior of fundamental and complex systems. The Physics Department offers majors in physics, physics (astrophysics), and applied physics. Physics major students have an option to complete the Quantum Information Science concentration, while applied physics students are offered the Computational Physics concentration. These programs prepare students for graduate work in physics, astrophysics and astronomy, for engineering and other technical positions in industry, and for careers in education. With appropriate courses in other disciplines, these majors provide excellent preparation for advanced study in technical subjects such as biology, chemistry, engineering, geophysics, and the philosophy of science. The applied physics major is excellent preparation for positions in industry directly upon graduation.

For undergraduate students having a particular interest in the subject, a minor in astronomy and astrophysics is offered. Most students who minor in astronomy and astrophysics are majors in another science, though majors in other fields are also possible.

For more information about the physics (astrophysics) program requirements, please see the program description in the General Catalog.

Learning Experience

Astrophysics students and faculty use a number of UCSC research facilities: The Theoretical Astrophysics Santa Cruz (TASC) Institute, University of California Observatories (headquartered at UCSC), and the Supercomputing Laboratory for Undergraduates (SLUG). Lick Observatory, home to the first automated planet-finding telescope, provides additional local research opportunities.

Astronomy and Astrophysics Research

Study and Research Opportunities

✔ B.S., M.S., Ph.D., undergraduate minor, and a combined B.S./M.S. degree

✔ The number of research opportunities for physics undergraduates is exceptionally high.

✔ Within upper-division classes we offer a wide array of labs, including astronomical labs where students operate UC telescopes, and computational labs where students write their own codes.

✔ The senior thesis requirement enables students to interact professionally with faculty in a research environment.

✔ The California Teach program at UCSC supports student outreach, advises students, and arranges teaching internships for Science Education.