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2019 Best Colleges for Physics in AmericaAbout this List

The Best Colleges for Physics ranking is based on key statistics and student reviews using data from the U.S. Department of Education. The ranking compares the top physics programs in the U.S. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

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  1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

    • 4 Year
    • Cambridge, MA
    • 609 reviews
    #1 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Junior: MIT is an outstanding university with numerous and diverse opportunities in research and academics. Classes at MIT are indeed difficult, with homework and associated studying consuming a large chunk of time. The beauty of this is that it pushes students to go above and beyond their previous understanding of what they believed themselves to be capable of. Additionally, the explorative and creative atmosphere which springs from the vibrancy of the student body and the faculty is second to none. There are so many chances to do great things at MIT, even as an undergrad!
    Read 609 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,230 Net Price
    • 1490-1570 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  2. California Institute of Technology

    • 4 Year
    • Pasadena, CA
    • 114 reviews
    #2 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Alum: Caltech is a very work hard play hard mentality. Academically, it has the most rigorous and intense coursework I've ever experienced. Alumni agree that any job after graduation pales in comparison to the Caltech workload. The professors are amazingly competent, and it's treated as no big deal to take a course taught by a Nobel-prize winner. I would say the classes are very theoretical with an emphasis on proofs, so it's not very industry-oriented (unless you study computer programming). Socially, although there's no Greek life, all students are sorted into one of eight dorm houses, which are essentially fraternities. There are parties, you just need to know where to look for them. The food is terrible, eating out or cooking your own is both cheaper and tastier. The dorms are old, but no major issues. Caltech isn't perfect, but it'll challenge you academically and get you a good job after graduation.
    Read 114 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8% Acceptance Rate
    • $24,466 Net Price
    • 1530-1590 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  3. Harvard University

    • 4 Year
    • Cambridge, MA
    • 684 reviews
    #3 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Freshman: I just finished my first year at Harvard. I had a rocky transition at first, but I am really loving it! The professors and TFs I have had are all really friendly and accessible, and there is an endless list of classes that I want to take. Conversations with peers are really thought-provoking and deep. You can find so many great communities through different activities, and there are so many great people on campus. Even as a freshman, I have been offered so many unique opportunities that I know come from Harvard's resources. I never thought it could, but Harvard has really become my home this year.
    Read 684 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 5% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,030 Net Price
    • 1460-1590 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  4. Sponsored

    Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Prescott

    • 4 Year
    • Prescott, AZ
    • 869 reviews

    Freshman: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Prescott, has provided me with many opportunities and I feel that committing here was the best option for me, personally. While there is a large male to female ratio, females attending this school receive great attention and are offered many additional opportunities. Due to their small campus and enrollment, teachers and students can interact in a way that many other college students won't get to experience. I have made some strong personal connections with many of my professors, and hopefully this will allow me to build my reputation with them for the next three years.
    Read 869 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 77% Acceptance Rate
    • $34,120 Net Price
    • 1130-1350 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  5. Yale University

    • 4 Year
    • New Haven, CT
    • 959 reviews
    #4 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Niche User: I really like the online courses from Yale University, you can choose btw a lot of different subjects and get smarter.
    And the proffessors are amazing!
    This university changed me a lot. Not only do I feel like an expert in my area of study, but I have been taught to write and speak in a much more compelling way than ever before. The university is very conducive to fostering strong friendships among undergrads. I have close networks of friends that I could not have formed elsewhere
    Read 959 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,053 Net Price
    • 1460-1580 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  6. Stanford University

    • 4 Year
    • Stanford, CA
    • 1,147 reviews
    #5 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Sophomore: Stanford is the greatest place on earth. I feel so at home here and love everything about the campus and life here. The weather is amazing (no snow! or freezing temperatures), people are happier than many other schools, and you have the freedom and flexibility to study anything and switch your major around.
    Read 1,147 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 5% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,562 Net Price
    • 1390-1540 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  7. University of Chicago

    • 4 Year
    • Chicago, IL
    • 1,152 reviews
    #6 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Junior: A great experience! Definitely rigorous and not for the faint of heart. Academically excellent, fantastic research opportunities, diverse, professors are amazing. I participate in varsity sports and it's a great community. The surrounding City is amazing...tons to do.
    Read 1,152 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8% Acceptance Rate
    • $34,834 Net Price
    • 1480-1580 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
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  9. Princeton University

    • 4 Year
    • Princeton, NJ
    • 416 reviews
    #7 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Junior: Well study here, but there with this awesome New Jersey accent, I had no chance to be the best in linguist, but this center give me the best help speakwriteplay.com/
    Read 416 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 6% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,302 Net Price
    • 1430-1570 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  10. Cornell University

    • 4 Year
    • Ithaca, NY
    • 1,829 reviews
    #8 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Freshman: Prepare to work hard - especially if you're in STEM. As an engineering major my life here is a never ending cycle of attending classes, working in lab, engineering project team related work, doing homework and crashing/going to bed at 1-2AM. It may seem rough to the outsider but if you're coming from a challenging high school (as I did) its a relatively seamless transition and I am infinitely happier here at Cornell! There is constantly something new happening from the range of amazing speakers visiting, cool things your classmates are creating/doing, Ithaca's quirky charm, your eccentric professors , etc... I came here expecting the competition to be intense and thank goodness its not ; there's a sense of general comradery amongst engineers. The motto 'any person, any study' is really true. They have just about every major allowing allotting the opportunity to study a great variety of fields. Fair warning about Ithaca; it gets REALLY cold! Invest in a warm coat!
    Read 1,829 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 13% Acceptance Rate
    • $31,449 Net Price
    • 1390-1550 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  11. Columbia University

    • 4 Year
    • New York, NY
    • 1,165 reviews
    #9 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Graduate Student: I really feel included as a member of the Columbia family! There are numerous useful resources for you to explore, either student organizations to meet new people, on-campus job opportunities, concern for student safety, etc. I love the university on being clear of the steps of everything you are going to be involved, quick in response, and the people being friendly.
    Read 1,165 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,824 Net Price
    • 1410-1570 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  14. Bowdoin College

    • 4 Year
    • Brunswick, ME
    • 675 reviews
    #10 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Freshman: So glad I chose to come to Bowdoin! A very close community where people treat each other with kindness and are excited to learn from their peers. Quality of life is great, with great dorms, food and surrounding area. Classes are challenging but there is very little competitiveness and lots of support for students academically. For a small liberal arts school, there is a very healthy and fun social life.
    Read 675 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 14% Acceptance Rate
    • $24,447 Net Price
    • 1360-1510 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  15. Harvey Mudd College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 130 reviews
    #11 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Alum: Attending Harvey Mudd College was a humbling experience. I was able to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics with peers who were similarly passionate. There are boundless opportunities to take courses both on campus or at any of the four other undergraduate Claremont Colleges that are all within a 1-mile radius, just a short walk or quick bike-ride away. I had the opportunity to pursue summer research projects and engage in a thesis project during my senior year. The campus encourages students to present their research across the nation at various conferences. It’s not uncommon for the department sponsoring your research project to also sponsor your attendance at research conferences including paying for hotel, airfare, and a food stipend! Last but most definitely not least, the advisors are passionate about your success and meet with students frequently. I personally met with my advisor on a weekly basis. I am grateful for this amazing undergraduate institution!
    Read 130 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 15% Acceptance Rate
    • $38,135 Net Price
    • 1470-1570 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  16. University of Pennsylvania

    • 4 Year
    • Philadelphia, PA
    • 1,180 reviews
    #12 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Senior: I truly love the University of Pennsylvania. I had an amazing time here and look forward to getting my graduate degree here next year. The highly professional environment and competitive atmosphere pushes students to reach their highest potential and grow beyond it. Penn also encourages students to have balanced social lives, and provides the students with the necessary resources to have their interests be represented within campus and in student groups. However, I must admit that Penn's hyper-competitive environment does have drawbacks, especially on students' mental health. I think Penn could tackle this by changing their grading scheme, especially for underclassmen.
    Read 1,180 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 9% Acceptance Rate
    • $24,539 Net Price
    • 1420-1560 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  18. Johns Hopkins University

    • 4 Year
    • Baltimore, MD
    • 1,254 reviews
    #13 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Graduate Student: I am a first year graduate student in their online Museum Studies program. So far, I love everything about Johns Hopkins University. My professors have been very attentive and answer all my questions quickly, the work is very relevant and there are so many resources to help me. JHU's admissions office and academic advisors have been in constant contact with me, making sure I was all set for the semester. My student alumni ambassador is a wonderful person who has been helping me with JHU on a personally experienced level as she has graduated from the same program. I am proud to be a part of the JHU community!
    Read 1,254 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 13% Acceptance Rate
    • $29,066 Net Price
    • 1450-1570 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  19. Duke University

    • 4 Year
    • Durham, NC
    • 1,056 reviews
    #14 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Freshman: Choosing to go to Duke has been one of the best decisions I've ever made. Its campus is BEAUTIFUL; we have lush gardens and there are so many birds here, from towhees to even the occasional hawk. The opportunities here to get involved are almost overwhelming. We have this program called DukeEngage where students go to all parts of the world to work with communities through research and volunteer work. I will actually be going to Costa Rica this summer to help in rainforest restoratuon and conservation through this program!But what I truly love most about this school is its students. The atmosphere here is not competitive but collaborative. I came to Duke feeling insecure about my qualifications compared to those of the other incoming freshman. But never once did I feel belittled or patronized. Students here want each other to succeed, we want to see each other grow and challenge ourselves to improve. Here at Duke, 'Southern Hospitality' is the real deal!
    Read 1,056 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 10% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,011 Net Price
    • 1380-1540 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  20. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

    • 4 Year
    • Ann Arbor, MI
    • 4,042 reviews
    #15 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Freshman: From amazing academics to contagious school spirit, I have loved my first year at Michigan. The universe exceeded all of my expectations. Everyone student is motivated to do their best. This is not only in a classroom setting, but it is in every aspect of their lives. I am pushed by all my peers to try my hardest. Although a large school, the administration truly cares about every student, and there are countless numbers of resources available to help with anything one may need. The social aspect of school is amazing. There are so many different types of people, clubs, and parties, so everyone can find something they like. GO BLUE!
    Read 4,042 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 27% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,408 Net Price
    • 1330-1500 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  21. University of California - Berkeley

    • 4 Year
    • Berkeley, CA
    • 3,903 reviews
    #16 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Junior: UC Berkeley provides outstanding environment for students to achieve and conquer their academic and career goals. Many people think of Cal as a cut-throat school but on the contrary, the amount of peer support I encountered within this school is amazing. Students in Cal uplift each other because studying here is hard but the products of that studying open doors to many career opportunities. At times it may feel overwhelming to find own place in such a big school, but Cal has plenty college resources for every kind of person. Go Bears!
    Read 3,903 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 17% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,178 Net Price
    • 1260-1480 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  22. Haverford College

    • 4 Year
    • Haverford, PA
    • 209 reviews
    #17 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Niche User: I absolutely loved the atmosphere of the campus. The students all looked hard-working but stress-free. I appreciated the close-knit community of the school compared to prestigious schools in the city, yet there was still movement and multiple different things to do to have "fun" off and around campus. Haverford is my dream school!
    Read 209 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 20% Acceptance Rate
    • $23,582 Net Price
    • 1390-1530 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  25. University of California - Los Angeles

    • 4 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 4,861 reviews
    #18 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Senior: I love the campus and overall location. The scenery makes it worthwhile especially during those times when your classes are overwhelming. There is always something to do nearby if you look for it. I'd like to see funding go to necessary areas other than sports or marketing of the actual university. For example, the minority communities deserve to have and be knowledgeable about spaces designated for them where they can meet others like themselves, especially because the campus is so big with so many people. In addition there should be more resources for all students, but especially for those who are structurally disadvantaged. Overall, I enjoy my time here thanks to the amazing community of likeminded individuals that I found!
    Read 4,861 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 16% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,760 Net Price
    • 1220-1450 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  26. Carnegie Mellon University

    • 4 Year
    • Pittsburgh, PA
    • 1,355 reviews
    #19 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Niche User: I attended CMU's pre-college summer program and I loved it. They have an amazing faculty whom remembered me upon admission. I took five classes that challenged me to be my very best. The skills I learned made me a better student during my senior year. It helped me buckle down when high school seemed petty knowing that college was indeed everything I thought it was. . .because, in a sense, I had already been to a fantastic one, albeit for six weeks in the summer. I highly recommend the summer programs at Carnegie Mellon. I consider it the most innovative university in the country!
    Read 1,355 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 22% Acceptance Rate
    • $29,817 Net Price
    • 1430-1560 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  27. University of Notre Dame

    • 4 Year
    • Notre Dame, IN
    • 1,271 reviews
    #20 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Freshman: I love Notre Dame! It's a beautiful place, inside and out. We've got all sorts of clubs, students and academic interests. Personally, I am very pleased with the Mass and Sacrament availability as well as all the Catholic-related activities. Of course, not everybody is Christian; Notre Dame is a home for all. I've already found some solid friends with whom I enjoy spending these cold (and warm) Indiana days. ND meets 100% of financial need; this assistance extends beyond tuition and has allowed me to get the full Notre Dame Experience. Everyone here is passionate about something, and one passion we all share is a love for Notre Dame, Our Mother. Go Irish!
    Read 1,271 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 19% Acceptance Rate
    • $27,453 Net Price
    • 1370-1520 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  28. Georgia Institute of Technology

    • 4 Year
    • Atlanta, GA
    • 1,942 reviews
    #21 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Freshman: Georgia Tech is a great school. At the same time though, it is very challenging. It is in a great area (Midtown Atlanta) and also has a great return as the average salary out of Tech is around 70k. There are many opportunities on campus for students to get experience and help with getting internships, co-ops, and jobs. The only thing I wish Tech would improve on is its food as it is very average and could be way better, considering how high tuition is. Also, I think that more attention to mental and student health should be emphasized as well. Overall, I do enjoy Georgia Tech. Know what you are getting yourself into though!
    Read 1,942 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 23% Acceptance Rate
    • $15,873 Net Price
    • 1090-1520 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  29. Carleton College

    • 4 Year
    • Northfield, MN
    • 479 reviews
    #22 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Sophomore: Carleton has wonderful faculty and their selling point would definitely be the academics. Carleton is also very generous with giving financial aid to students, which has helped me tremendously. Although it is secluded in a small town, I find this to be very good for my safety (honestly, you'll probably be too busy being on campus to even want to go to the cities). I think the dorms are above average for a lot of colleges in America. I've visited many, and Carleton's "worst dorm" (which I lived in) was very nice. Overall, great school! Can't wait to finish my degree.
    Read 479 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 21% Acceptance Rate
    • $28,148 Net Price
    • 1360-1530 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  32. University of Texas - Austin

    • 4 Year
    • Austin, TX
    • 5,867 reviews
    #23 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Sophomore: Best decision I've made in my life. I am a business honors student here at the University of Texas at Austin and I had choices among the best business schools in the nation: UMich, NYU, Indiana University, and Texas A&M. The student body is extremely smart and well-rounded. I highly doubt you would find this type of social scene where the students are all so high-achieving as well. The faculty is amazing and there are so many resources for the students that can be used. UT is great at sports, academics, partying, and outdoor activities. It really is the best school, and hook 'em horns forever!
    Read 5,867 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 36% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,356 Net Price
    • 1220-1460 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  33. University of Virginia

    • 4 Year
    • Charlottesville, VA
    • 2,111 reviews
    #24 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Freshman: I absolutely love everything about the University of Virginia. I visited several colleges before making my decision and knew that UVA was the place for me. It has a great reputation, the grounds are beautiful, and being part of a sports team is an added plus and has many rewards. My team is like family. Also, the area around the university, is very inviting. There is so much to do with lots of dining and shopping. I know that having a UVA degree will help me in the future in finding a good job. I can't picture myself to be anywhere else! This University has it all!
    Read 2,111 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 27% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,594 Net Price
    • 1310-1500 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  34. Colgate University

    • 4 Year
    • Hamilton, NY
    • 986 reviews
    #25 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Alum: Colgate academically was an excellent undergraduate institution. I was exposed to dedicated professors who truly cared about the advancement of their students. I was certainly held to a high standard, which although daunting at times is something I am very grateful for. The campus and village of Hamilton are also places I will miss whenever I am away from them. I truly fell in love with the local area, and I plan to return as often as possible. The only complaint I have about Colgate is the social scene. Although I had a great time, not being involved in Greek life certainly hurt my ability to excel socially. I often felt ostracized from the general student body and sometimes struggled to feel part of the social life.
    Read 986 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 28% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,182 Net Price
    • 1310-1500 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  35. Sponsored

    Carleton College

    • 4 Year
    • Northfield, MN
    • 479 reviews

    Sophomore: Carleton has wonderful faculty and their selling point would definitely be the academics. Carleton is also very generous with giving financial aid to students, which has helped me tremendously. Although it is secluded in a small town, I find this to be very good for my safety (honestly, you'll probably be too busy being on campus to even want to go to the cities). I think the dorms are above average for a lot of colleges in America. I've visited many, and Carleton's "worst dorm" (which I lived in) was very nice. Overall, great school! Can't wait to finish my degree.
    Read 479 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 21% Acceptance Rate
    • $28,148 Net Price
    • 1360-1530 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  36. Sponsored

    Central Michigan University

    • 4 Year
    • Mount Pleasant, MI
    • 2,670 reviews

    Freshman: Upon arriving in the fall, I felt incredibly welcomed through Leadership Safari. My transition into college was worthwhile and never lost it's excitement, even as I finish up my first year. I am so impressed with the students that I am surrounded by, who are all passionate about change, diversity, inclusion, and making the world a better place. They offer amazing courses that are both challenging but doable. I have loved living in a dorm this year and had a great experience with my roommates, luckily! The campus is small enough to feel at home yet large enough to always have something going on. Food-great. Safety-great. I am genuinely having the time of my life, and am constantly finding new ways to get involved and make my stamp on the world!
    Read 2,670 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 68% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,675 Net Price
    • 1010-1200 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
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