Difficulty
Workload
Enjoyment
Career Prospects
Math Required
Writing Analysis
About this major
Physics is the study of the fundamental principles governing the natural world, from the smallest subatomic particles to the vastness of the universe. Students learn to apply mathematical models and experimental techniques to understand laws of motion, energy, and matter.
STEMScientificAnalyticalResearchMathematical
Student Experience
Satisfaction
Career outlook
75%
Recommendation
25%
Plan grad school
Academic Balance
Math intensity
Writing intensity
WorkloadHard
DifficultyHard
Filters
“Physics at UCLA is very tough but very rewarding. For career opportunities, don't silo yourself to just research roles - physics is highly employable in roles like engineering, finance, etc.”
4/26/2026
“Very difficult but rewarding experience. For careers you need to keep an open mind beyond just physics research and professorships - physics is a super employable major in so many areas, like finance, engineering, prelaw, etc.”
4/26/2026
“Upper division is very hard. Really important to select the right professors. Workload will be really heavy, and require hard dedication to complete.”
10/26/2025
“Hard but rewarding. Really competitive for grad school and career. Good in physics good in everything. Hard but not talent-demanding”
10/10/2025