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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
    • 597
    1 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Niche User: There were some crucial facts about MIT which made me to apply to it. Here are they:
    1. My first choice is chemical engineering and I always adored to conduct researches in laboratories. Therefore, when I applied to colleges first of all I looked if they have a good undergraduate research opportunities. In MIT with the help UROP I could start researching even from freshman class.
    2. Its pass no record style of educating freshmen. There is no grading in the first semester. Instead, one gets "Pass" or "Fail" in his or her transcript. It allows students not to stress too much on grades, but explore the university and majors.
    3. Of course it is the best university in the field of chemical engineering. Top notch professors, smart peers and the best laboratories makes MIT unique.
    4. It's financially available for all international students. MIT's need blind policy makes it affordable for all who want to attend it.

    I hope it helps!
    Read 597 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8% Acceptance Rate
    • $21,576 Net Price
    • 1460-1590 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  2. California Institute of Technology

    • 4 Year
    • Pasadena, CA
    • 107
    2 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Alum: If you like science and tech, this is the place to go. Small school makes professors, research, work study, and other opportunities more available. You learn to work with others to get through the academics which are tough, but you ultimately come out with a great sense of accomplishment. It is not the right school for everyone but if you want to major in science or engineering, it would be hard to find a better place.
    Read 107 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8% Acceptance Rate
    • $26,839 Net Price
    • 1510-1600 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  3. Harvard University

    • 4 Year
    • Cambridge, MA
    • 655
    3 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Alum: Harvard University offers the most incredible experience for its students. From the rich history to the esteemed faculty to the vibrant atmosphere of Harvard Square, it is truly one of a kind and inspiring. During my time at Harvard, I got to dance to Gangnam Style with Psy, read a Gutenberg Bible, study and work under my hero, perform fMRIs, and eat brunch in what is essentially the Great Hall of Hogwarts. I cannot begin to tell you the opportunities available here nor what you will learn from working and studying alongside people from all over the world. Harvard also tries to promote diversity further by offering a needs-blind application process and a financial aid package that guarantees you will not have to turn down your acceptance due to financial hardship! Harvard truly takes care of its students, giving them every opportunity imaginable and giving them an experience they will never forget.
    Read 655 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 5% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,205 Net Price
    • 1430-1600 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  5. Yale University

    • 4 Year
    • New Haven, CT
    • 939
    4 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Works Here: Yale is a highly diverse university with exceptionally friendly and helpful faculty, staff, and students. The food is beyond exceptional, taking sustainability, food waste, health, and nutrition in mind when it comes to every dish. I'm always learning new things each time I step foot on campus. I can't say enough about this place!
    Read 939 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 6% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,319 Net Price
    • 1420-1600 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  6. Stanford University

    • 4 Year
    • Stanford, CA
    • 1,122
    5 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Alum: The campus is beautiful to start and provides many beautiful areas for studying or hanging out with friends. The campus is full of amazing resources including the libraries and professors. The academics are definitely challenging, but worth it. Go Card!
    Read 1,122 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 5% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,695 Net Price
    • 1380-1580 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  7. University of Chicago

    • 4 Year
    • Chicago, IL
    • 1,130
    6 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Alum: It's nice to see that the University has increased campus diversity of financial aid resources for families that will make the campus more diverse in terms of student backgrounds. I enjoyed my time in college housing a lot! Get involved with your house - go on house trips, play intramural sports, take on a leadership position. If you need something - speak up and ask for it! You really can have a say in your university. Don't be shy to speak up and ask questions. The University can only continue to improve with that kind of input.
    Read 1,130 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8% Acceptance Rate
    • $31,068 Net Price
    • 1450-1600 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
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  9. Princeton University

    • 4 Year
    • Princeton, NJ
    • 400
    7 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Sophomore: Classes at Princeton are superb in all regards. Faculty to student ratios are very low, so students can receive a significant amount of attention from world-class professors and extremely helpful teacher assistants. The amount of resources dedicated to each student is unmatched. The alumni system is very structured, ensuring a connected student body with those in industry or academia. The campus is beautiful, showing off a gothic architecture juxtaposed with modern designs. The local area is a safe, cozy college town. The university is within an hour of New York and Philadelphia by train, but there are countless activities, clubs, and organizations to stay busy on campus. The food is relatively good and healthy. Some of the dorm conditions could be improved, but regardless the university does provide adequate housing and space for all students.
    Read 400 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,732 Net Price
    • 1400-1590 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  10. Cornell University

    • 4 Year
    • Ithaca, NY
    • 1,787
    8 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Sophomore: I love the environment and community, and the hidden cafes and delis are a delight to find and sample. The slope, rivers, gorges, lakes, waterfalls, and trails are soothing when the semester gets hectic, and there's no shortage of available activities, clubs, events, and things to do on campus! The winter is harsh but its gorgeous to see, and the overall environment is very friendly.
    Read 1,787 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 14% Acceptance Rate
    • $30,014 Net Price
    • 1330-1530 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  11. Columbia University

    • 4 Year
    • New York, NY
    • 1,127
    9 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Niche User: I visited Columbia at the end of March with a group and loved the vibe of the campus. Although I want to be as close as I can to or in the city, my ideal college campus needs look like a university setting. NYU, on the other hand, is right in the middle of the city and sometimes you can't tell where the buildings are without the NYU flags. I liked Columbia much better in that sense and I personally do not need to vouch for the education standard because we all know an ideal place to go for an intelligent, hard working student. Walking around the main area made me feel like I belonged there!
    Read 1,127 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,973 Net Price
    • 1410-1590 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  12. Sponsored

    Wheaton College - Massachusetts

    • 4 Year
    • Norton, MA
    • 597

    Senior: All of my professors have been incredibly enthusiastic and passionate about their work, which translates very well in the classroom. They have also been astoundingly devoted to helping their students outside of the classroom. Even a professor who retired years ago still meets with me to discuss research and help me with my projects! I can’t say enough good things about the academics here. I love the political climate as well. It’s such a welcoming, inclusive community dedicated to becoming better and better everyday.

    Additionally-the dorms are huge compared to most univeristy dorms! Especially the ones for freshmen, so fret not about not being able to fit all your stuff!
    Read 597 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 67% Acceptance Rate
    • $32,821 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  13. Bowdoin College

    • 4 Year
    • Brunswick, ME
    • 659
    10 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Niche User: I love the fact that Bowdoin is a small, liberal arts college. I am someone who thrives in close teacher-student relationships, and Bowdoin provides me with such an opportunity. Further, the College's emphasizes on career development is really important. For instance, Bowdoin displays fashion shows among students and faculty to learn "what to wear and what not to wear for an interview." Further, even though Bowdoin does not have a Journalism program, they do have an English major, and also the opportunity to create one's own program/major.
    Read 659 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 15% Acceptance Rate
    • $24,888 Net Price
    • 1360-1510 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  14. Harvey Mudd College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 129
    11 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Junior: Academics at Harvey Mudd are exceptional. It is rigorous and not always rewarding, but at the end of the day, you learn a lot. Plenty of exciting classes to take, both at Mudd and at the other 5Cs. Mudders are easy to get along with. Only major issue with Mudd is the lack of grade inflation which can hurt your chances of getting into a top Grad school program. Getting a job after graduating from Mudd is easier and very rewarding.
    Read 129 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 13% Acceptance Rate
    • $35,460 Net Price
    • 1420-1580 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  15. University of Pennsylvania

    • 4 Year
    • Philadelphia, PA
    • 1,150
    12 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Sophomore: The University of Pennsylvania has been my top choice school, and I am very satisfied with my experience so far. I am most impressed by the stylistically varied yet unified campus architecture, the quality of professors and extracurricular activities, and the times I spent at Locust Walk.
    Few reviews of Penn can be written without mentioning Locust Walk. It serves as the central walkway for several dorms, dining options, and significant locations. At the same time, it is a hub for students of all majors and interests and a vibrant representation of Penn's life and culture. The Walk continues to be a wonderful addition to my college experience.
    At the same time, I appreciate Penn's dedication to development. Every year, new constructions, programs, and extracurricular opportunities arise, and I enjoy being part of such a community. I would recommend Penn to anyone who loves challenges, immersive experiences, and diverse social connections.
    Read 1,150 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 9% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,944 Net Price
    • 1380-1570 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  17. Johns Hopkins University

    • 4 Year
    • Baltimore, MD
    • 1,226
    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 1,226 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 13% Acceptance Rate
    • $27,352 Net Price
    • 1400-1570 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  18. Duke University

    • 4 Year
    • Durham, NC
    • 1,040
    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 1,040 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 11% Acceptance Rate
    • $19,950 Net Price
    • 1380-1570 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  19. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

    • 4 Year
    • Ann Arbor, MI
    • 3,950
    15 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Alum: The University of Michigan's motto is "Leaders and Best" and that's exactly what this school provides and produces. It provides the best professors, courses and college experiences and produces innovative leaders. My experience at this institution allowed for academic and personal growth, which has embedded quite a zealous spirit within me, especially in regard to the achievement of my future aspirations. I can't thank this school enough. To conclude, I recommend the University of Michigan to anyone willing to work hard, expand their mind and anyone who wishes to fulfil their dreams!
    Read 3,950 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 29% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,107 Net Price
    • 1310-1500 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  20. University of California - Berkeley

    • 4 Year
    • Berkeley, CA
    • 3,803
    16 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Sophomore: Berkeley is just perfect balance between academics and fun! I have amazing professors in all of my classes and they never stress me out too much. It's rigorous enough to get me going but not up to the point where it is not enjoyable. I have plenty of time to destress and go crazy on frat row. Berkeley also provides very unique experiences with a campus ripe with freedom of self-expression. You meet all sorts of people. Also, Berkeley is the number 1 public university in the world so you are definitely getting your money's worth!
    Read 3,803 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 17% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,160 Net Price
    • 1270-1540 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  21. Haverford College

    • 4 Year
    • Haverford, PA
    • 202
    17 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Senior: Haverford is an incredibly liberal arts-oriented college. With that in mind, the academics is highly focused on students, professors are caring and among the most approachable you'll ever meet, and students respect and care for each other. Campus is scenic, quiet, and has an excellent location in the suburb. There are many restaurants and shops within walkable distance to campus. However, in terms of the social aspect, Haverford parties are somewhat lame in nature, but it is also an extremely safe and accepting environment. Despite that athletics is not commendable, either, the majority of students are more or less involved in varsity sports and seem to enjoy what they do. Overall, Haverford is a nurturing environment for both intellectual growth and maturing personality-wise, and is ideal for those who seek a non-distressing transition into college.
    Read 202 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 21% Acceptance Rate
    • $21,144 Net Price
    • 1320-1520 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  22. Sponsored

    Northern Arizona University

    • 4 Year
    • Flagstaff, AZ
    • 4,867

    Senior: What I loved about Northern Arizona University were the different types of activities and clubs, which were fun and extremely helpful. I participated in the Pre-Dental club and it helped me to gain volunteer and shadowing experiences inside a dental clinic. There were many times where I struggled with my classes, but with the help of my professors and the study sessions I was able to get through my courses successfully. One thing I would change about NAU are the prices for housing and parking. I have suffered greatly with living expenses because housing is expensive.
    Read 4,867 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 78% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,664 Net Price
    • 940-1160 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  23. University of California - Los Angeles

    • 4 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 4,679
    18 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Freshman: The University of California, Los Angeles is a premier university that offers not only quality academic instruction, but also a plethora of opportunities to apply in real life whatever is picked up in lessons; this includes internship and undergraduate research prospects. UCLA boasts one of the largest and the most diverse student bodies in USA, and structures its funds in a very planned and careful manner to ensure that the student has the best experience while on campus. With Hollywood just down a few miles and the Santa Monica beach around, one can expect pleasant surprises almost every time! Overall, I feel proud to be a part of this great dream which is making significant contributions in making this world a better place. I hope I can be of service to the society of people in UCLA. All said, Go Bruins!
    Read 4,679 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 18% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,236 Net Price
    • 1160-1470 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  24. Carnegie Mellon University

    • 4 Year
    • Pittsburgh, PA
    • 1,338
    19 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Senior: Carnegie Mellon fosters the most diverse collegiate environment where you can pursue anything you want to, academically and extracurricular-wise. It is home to 7 distinct colleges undergraduates can choose from including engineering, science, CS, business, fine arts, humanities, and information systems. I belong with the Mellon College of Science (MCS). The cool thing is that I am majoring in Neuroscience through MCS but am also minoring in biomedical engineering through the Carnegie Institute of Technology (CIT - engineering school), so I am experiencing the best of both colleges. This is only one example of the many interdisciplinary paths you can take here at CMU. Finally, CMU provides its students numerous opportunities to make an impact outside the classroom whether that is through travel-abroad service organizations, athletics, and so much more. The main takeaway is the CMU-experience is yours to design and there are endless possibilities.
    Read 1,338 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 22% Acceptance Rate
    • $35,250 Net Price
    • 1380-1550 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  25. University of Notre Dame

    • 4 Year
    • Notre Dame, IN
    • 1,253
    20 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Alum: Notre Dame is an amazing place to get a high quality education with great reputation and close-knit community feel with fun and spirited student life. It’s not necessary to be Catholic and people who aren’t religious at all won’t feel excluded, but it is especially amazing for people who are religious. I myself am not very religious but was raised in the faith and do appreciate it, so I enjoyed being around it and taking the required Theology and Philosophy courses. Everyone is extremely nice and collaborative! Very smart people here and caring professors. Single sex dorms is a negative as well as less opportunities for medical professions, as there is no hospital or medical focus here. I would say it’s best for business, engineering, or liberal arts. Although science is still good here and people get into great grad programs no matter what they want to continue on studying!
    Read 1,253 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 19% Acceptance Rate
    • $26,683 Net Price
    • 1350-1540 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  26. Georgia Institute of Technology

    • 4 Year
    • Atlanta, GA
    • 1,899
    21 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Freshman: I could not have picked a better college to attend! It has the major that I was interested in, Mechanical Engineering, as well as a great investment for my future. The professors have been excellent and have been more than willing to answer my questions. The food is great, and GT provides several dining options throughout campus which is big plus when I have classes at various places on campus. The dorms for freshman are traditional dorms which are not fancy but adequate. I have found a place that I love. I have made great friends that I suspect that I will have for the rest of my life.
    Read 1,899 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 26% Acceptance Rate
    • $13,340 Net Price
    • 1320-1500 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  27. Carleton College

    • 4 Year
    • Northfield, MN
    • 474
    22 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Sophomore: Carleton is a great liberal arts school with professors that care about the students as well as students that care about the students. It is a nice school if you want to go on a school outside of the city, but if you are a city person, then Carleton would not be the best place to be. Finally, the academics is very good!
    Read 474 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 23% Acceptance Rate
    • $28,587 Net Price
    • 1320-1540 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  30. University of Texas - Austin

    • 4 Year
    • Austin, TX
    • 5,682
    23 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Junior: In one sentence:there.is.something.for.everyone! UT Austin is simply the best in making a large school feeling immediately smaller by the countless communities you can jump right into. From political to adventurous student organizations, to meeting the very brightest professors and students in your chosen field, you will never cease to be amazed by the unlimited amount of opportunities available to you. For instance, I am a double major in Government and International Relations and Global Studies and am continuously amazed at the amount of programs, events, lectures , courses, and books available just for students in those majors. Your college's department of Career Services will blow you away as well, they will provide any and all resources to ensure your success after graduation. Most of all, UT is a highly respected university in the state of Texas and beyond, a degree from UT will go a very long way! I highly recommend studying here.
    Read 5,682 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 40% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,010 Net Price
    • 1140-1410 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  31. University of Virginia

    • 4 Year
    • Charlottesville, VA
    • 2,074
    24 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Sophomore: I never thought that I would love college this much! The University of Virginia is AMAZING. I have learned a great deal from each of my professors. (I recommend using ratemyprofessor and thecourseform to help you choose them). I actually enjoy going to classes that aren't based on regurgitating information but processing it and actually learning. Additionally, with thousands of clubs, there are plenty of ways to get involved. On another note, there are many stereotypes of people who come to the University, but I promise that not all of us are preppy, rich, and white, though a good portion is. The only problems I have with UVA are the prices of tuition and the honor code. Tuition is expensive and instead of giving grants UVA sometimes gives a lot of loans. Although I love the honor code and what it stands for, it seems to target minorities and foreign students.
    Read 2,074 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 30% Acceptance Rate
    • $15,945 Net Price
    • 1240-1460 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  32. Colgate University

    • 4 Year
    • Hamilton, NY
    • 976
    25 Best Colleges for Physics in America

    Senior: Colgate has changed my life. I grew up with a single parent who made minimum wage, so going to college was never a guarantee. Colgate helped me every step of the way. They aren't need blind, but they do meet full demonstrated need. I have traveled to over 15 countries, had three summer internships (fully funded by Colgate), and met with world leaders. Colgate is an incredible place, especially if you take advantage of it. Go to office hours. I went for advice on a paper and one of my professors made some calls to help me get me my dream job. Alumni will go out of their way to help you (seriously. I have a colgate sticker on my car and people will leave their business cards on my windshield in case I want to meet with them).
    Read 976 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 29% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,463 Net Price
    • 1290-1460 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
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