2022 Best Colleges for Physics in America

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. This year's rankings have reduced the weight of ACT/SAT scores to reflect a general de-emphasis on test scores in the college admissions process. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

Physics

College Quiz
Best colleges
Best value
Best student life
Top party schools
Best academics

College Quiz
Best colleges
Best value
Best academics
Best professors
Hardest to get into

Best programs

Accounting/finance
Agricultural sciences
Anthropology
Architecture
Art
Biology
Business
Chemistry
Communications
Computer science
Criminal justice
Culinary arts
Design
Economics
Education
Engineering
Engineering technician
English
Environmental science
Film/photography
Global studies
Health care management
History
Information technology
International relations
Kinesiology/therapy
Math
Music
Nursing
Performing arts
Philosophy
Physics
Political science
Psychology
Public health
Public policy
Religious studies
Sports management

Students

Most diverse
Most liberal
Most conservative

Social scene

Best student life
Top party schools
Best greek life

Campus

Best campuses
Best college dorms
Best college food
Best locations
Safest campuses

Athletics

College athletics
Best for student athletes

College Type

4-Year

Private

Public

2-Year

Community

Trade/Career

Other

Select an area of study to view top schools for students studying in those general fields.

Select a major to filter your search to only schools that offer degrees in that specific major or program. Enter a major before choosing whether you want to study online or on campus.

Provides auto-suggestions when entering text

Filter by Major

Online

Campus

See All Majors

Online categories are primarily based on the number of majors that can be completed online. For more information view the college's Niche profile or visit the college's website.

Fully Online

Large Online Program

Some Online Degrees

Average cost after financial aid for students receiving grant or scholarship aid, as reported by the college.

Select a value

Enrollment for full-time undergraduates. Small: Less than 5,000, Medium: 5-15,000, Large: More than 15,000.

Small

Medium

Large

Specialty

Liberal Arts

All-Women

All-Men

HBCU

Hispanic-Serving Institutions

Select a value that matches your actual or expected total score on the ACT or SAT. For the SAT, please choose the sum of your Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing scores.

Select a value

Admissions Process

Selectivity based on acceptance rate. Extremely Selective: < 15%, Very Selective: 15%-30%, Selective: 30%-60%, Average: 60%-90%, Not Selective: > 90%.

Extremely Selective

Very Selective

Selective

Average

Not Selective

Religious Affiliation

A critical mass of the student body falls within the specified group, low and middle income students pay a reasonable net price, the school participates in tuition relief programs for veterans, and the school's overall Niche Grade is above a B-.

Veterans

International Students

Adult Learners

Low-Income Students

Middle-Class Students

Median salary of all students at the school employed 2 years after graduation.

loading indicator

1 – 25 of 948

Showing results 1 through 25 of 948

1 through 25 of 948 results

948 results

Sophomore: Currently reaching near the middle of my time here, and this school truly works you to the bone. The baseline of this place is that everyone is very smart. Some are decently smart and work hard enough to get in, others come in doing Olympiads from when they were 5 years old...The students are very diverse. Some come in "normal", others finally get to truly express the weird and unique that they've been suppressing their whole lives. The campus is extremely welcoming and you really get to be who you want to be; it's very beautiful. Each dorm has an extant history and culture; you can automatically learn about someone by what dorm they live in...The academics are exceedingly difficult by content and pace. The problem set difficulty are elevated beyond a typical school's, and they force you to collaborate with others. Everyone must collaborate. You're forced to learn time management skills...I was finally able to satisfy my love for learning here. Truly an amazing and unique school!Read 639 Reviews
#1 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
4 Year,
CAMBRIDGE, MA,
639 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Currently reaching near the middle of my time here, and this school truly works you to the bone. The baseline of this place is that everyone is very smart. Some are decently smart and work hard...The students are very diverse. Some come in "normal", others finally get to truly express the weird and unique that they've been suppressing their whole lives. The campus is extremely welcoming and...The academics are exceedingly difficult by content and pace. The problem set difficulty are elevated beyond a typical school's, and they force you to collaborate with others. Everyone must...I was finally able to satisfy my love for learning here. Truly an amazing and unique school!.
Read 639 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $19,998,
SAT Range: 1510-1580,
Will You Get In?Compare
#2 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
California Institute of Technology
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PASADENA, CA,
126 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Great academic and research environment. Amazing people all around, from students to faculty. Only problem is the administration..
Read 126 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $26,591,
SAT Range: 1530-1580,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: Yale is an amazing school! The professors and students are all encouraging and friendly. Everyone there deserves to be there, which makes the learning environment extremely rewarding and stimulating. There are so many resources to help you navigate your time at Yale, especially during your first-year. You immediately build a community within your residential college, and can find a group instantly through classes or extracurriculars. The campus is beautiful, intertwined with the city. The courtyards of the residential colleges and the buildings on campus are unmatched by any other university in the country. Everyone is extremely friendly, all while you are earning a world-class education and building connections that will last for years to come...Read 1,004 Reviews
#3 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Yale University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NEW HAVEN, CT,
1004 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Yale is an amazing school! The professors and students are all encouraging and friendly. Everyone there deserves to be there, which makes the learning environment extremely rewarding and stimulating.....
Read 1004 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $17,511,
SAT Range: 1460-1580,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Sponsored
Sophomore: There was an equal and easy balance between school and partying. No matter what major you are. When I first enrolled I was in a dual enrollment and I thought it would be difficult but it was very easy. Everyone there are honest and open. There is a very huge diversity of people with different view on things/ different backgrounds and understanding yet they somehow all come together in such an equal way. When it comes to academics your professors actually care. Although they will not care unless you as the student show an effort that you care. They will fight for you no matter what, as long as you show you are eager and willing to want to learn. The balance between hard and easy work, depending on how you identify both is quite equal, it never gets too hard but it will always never be too easy. Preparing for exams has never been easy, it literally is a re-run of everything you learned. So it really allows you as a student to sit / ask yourself in the end, did I pay attention and learn...Read 1,015 Reviews
Sponsored Result, North Carolina Central University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
DURHAM, NC,
1015 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says There was an equal and easy balance between school and partying. No matter what major you are. When I first enrolled I was in a dual enrollment and I thought it would be difficult but it was very....
Read 1015 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: C+,
Acceptance Rate: 87%,
Net Price: $13,324,
SAT Range: 850-1010,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Sophomore: Make sure to do your research before deciding to apply or committing. Definitely a lot of prestige, resources, and amazing people. However, as an inner city kid from the midwest, the east coast, especially Boston, was sort of a culture shock. Social life is not as prominent as it is at other schools because academics and athletics definitely dominate the scene. Boston is definitely a college CITY. With so many colleges in a 10 mile radius you only see college study out and about. Overall a very eye opening experience, just make sure to visit and be sure that this is what you seek in your college experience!...Read 779 Reviews
#4 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Harvard University
4 Year,
CAMBRIDGE, MA,
779 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Make sure to do your research before deciding to apply or committing. Definitely a lot of prestige, resources, and amazing people. However, as an inner city kid from the midwest, the east coast,....
Read 779 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 5%,
Net Price: $18,037,
SAT Range: 1460-1580,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Alum: Now, 60+ years after a Stanford BSME, I am astoundingly grateful for a rounded undergraduate engineering education that led to 1) a succession of rewarding employments, and through those, 2) development of cultural appreciation and of language capability in Malaysian/Indonesian - employment experiences in human relations and communication that made me a more effective and versatile engineer. So to Stanford, thanks for getting me off to a great start!...T. Savage, SeattleRead 1,222 Reviews
#5 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Stanford University
4 Year,
STANFORD, CA,
1222 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Now, 60+ years after a Stanford BSME, I am astoundingly grateful for a rounded undergraduate engineering education that led to 1) a succession of rewarding employments, and through those, 2)...T. Savage, Seattle.
Read 1222 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 5%,
Net Price: $20,023,
SAT Range: 1420-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: The courses, faculty, resources, and community here are all wonderful. There is truly a culture throughout the university of caring about the students and doing everything possible to help them succeed. The academics are, of course, extremely challenging, but there are plenty of ways to get help and the academic faculty are always very receptive to students needing assistance. Most everyone has the drive to succeed without creating an overly competitive or cutthroat environment. Culture outside of academics - arts, music, clubs, sports - is vibrant as well...Read 448 Reviews
#6 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Princeton University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PRINCETON, NJ,
448 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says The courses, faculty, resources, and community here are all wonderful. There is truly a culture throughout the university of caring about the students and doing everything possible to help them....
Read 448 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $18,685,
SAT Range: 1450-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: My favorite part of UChicago is definitely its academics -- students are constantly encouraged to debate, rethink, and most importantly, listen. I was able to take a graduate student course as a first-year, and was amazed by the level of respectful and intellectual discussion that was possible! Students and professors alike are motivated, caring, and inclusive, and there's a strong sense of community everywhere you go, from the UCPD officer on the street corner to the dining hall staff. There's truly something for everyone, from Student Action to University Theater to Circus Club to Greek life. Regardless of extracurricular interests, however, there's an undeniable bond in the love of learning and open-mindedness that ties everyone in UChicago together...Read 1,204 Reviews
#7 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
University of Chicago
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
1204 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says My favorite part of UChicago is definitely its academics -- students are constantly encouraged to debate, rethink, and most importantly, listen. I was able to take a graduate student course as a....
Read 1204 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $36,584,
SAT Range: 1500-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Senior: Work hard, play harder. Cornell is an excellent school academically speaking & one where you'll find friends for life. The opportunities are endless, and job placement is spectacular. All of my friends are either going to top firms or top PhD/MD programs...It's hard to transition to college, but Cornell is a pretty difficult transition (very cold, hard academically, exclusive Greek life scene). That said, once you make it work for you it's the best uni experience!...Read 1,979 Reviews
#8 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Cornell University
4 Year,
ITHACA, NY,
1979 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Work hard, play harder. Cornell is an excellent school academically speaking & one where you'll find friends for life. The opportunities are endless, and job placement is spectacular. All of my...It's hard to transition to college, but Cornell is a pretty difficult transition (very cold, hard academically, exclusive Greek life scene). That said, once you make it work for you it's the best uni....
Read 1979 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 11%,
Net Price: $27,522,
SAT Range: 1400-1540,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: At first, I was a bit disappointed that I ended up at Rice University. I was aiming for the Ivy Leagues and ended up at a college that I hadn't even heard of before the university application process. However, even though I've only been here for a few weeks, I couldn't be happier. Rice is a super inclusive university, with only the best of the best as professors, and the people here are nicer than any other people I've ever met. Everyone in the student body is willing to get to know you and, as an introvert, I feel myself becoming more and more relaxed when hanging out and talking to other people. Of course, I couldn't mention Rice without mentioning how good their academics are, and as a STEM student the classes are fast-paced yet easy to understand. Rice also has an enormous campus that rivals the Ivies while only having a total enrollment of under 7000 students. This means that dorms are also massive, and the living conditions are sensational. I'm happy to be an Owl!...Read 1,079 Reviews
#9 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Rice University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
HOUSTON, TX,
1079 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says At first, I was a bit disappointed that I ended up at Rice University. I was aiming for the Ivy Leagues and ended up at a college that I hadn't even heard of before the university application....
Read 1079 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 11%,
Net Price: $19,215,
SAT Range: 1460-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Alum: Attending Columbia University was a fantastic experience for me. My professors were all very interesting. Some were a bit quirky, but that was ok. They always challenged me to be open to possibilities and to figure things out from all angles. The work load was definitely heavy, but I learned more there than anywhere else I have been since then. And the facilities were excellent. There's a telescope on campus and I'll never forget our class meeting at 9pm one night to view the planets and see what astronomers actually did. We saw rings of Saturn, Jupiters moons, storms on Jupiter, star clusters, and more. Even though it was only an elective class, I found it fascinating and the professor, who was visiting from England, was very engaging and enjoyed his work. All of my instructors were. They were all working and teaching, so it was the best of both worlds. Also, the research materials were endless. It didn't hurt that the school is in Manhattan, and in my favorite part!...Read 1,282 Reviews
#10 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Columbia University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NEW YORK, NY,
1282 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Attending Columbia University was a fantastic experience for me. My professors were all very interesting. Some were a bit quirky, but that was ok. They always challenged me to be open to....
Read 1282 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $22,126,
SAT Range: 1460-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Senior: I love Brown. I transferred here, and quickly met some of the most amazing, passionate, and genuine people I could imagine. The student body is so friendly and hard-working. Still, the best part of Brown is the open curriculum—the academic freedom and autonomy I am given here has changed my relationship to learning and life in general. I have discovered so many interests I never know I had! The open curriculum, in general, is perfect for students who have lots of wide-ranging interests and want to pursue multiple fields, or know exactly what they want to specialize in. But it's also great for students who have no idea, and want time to explore and try new areas of study while they figure things out. I agree with other reviewers that the food and dorms aren't outstanding by any means. However, the academic environement, professors, and fellow students at Brown are more than worth it. I'm so sad to be graduating :(...Read 1,033 Reviews
#11 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Brown University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PROVIDENCE, RI,
1033 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I love Brown. I transferred here, and quickly met some of the most amazing, passionate, and genuine people I could imagine. The student body is so friendly and hard-working. Still, the best part of....
Read 1033 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $27,659,
SAT Range: 1440-1560,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Junior: Work hard, play hard! That’s life at Penn. Strengths - Great approachable Professors, almost any class or activity you can think of, wonderful diversity, beautiful campus. Lots of opportunities to study abroad. Greek life is active, but not necessary to have a rich social life. Tuition, room and board are expensive but there’s lots of aid available. Highly recommended, but very competitive admission rate ( around 8% ). Suggest applying Early Decision if Penn’s your first choice ( 18% acceptance rate )...Read 1,284 Reviews
#12 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
University of Pennsylvania
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PHILADELPHIA, PA,
1284 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Work hard, play hard! That’s life at Penn. Strengths - Great approachable Professors, almost any class or activity you can think of, wonderful diversity, beautiful campus. Lots of opportunities....
Read 1284 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 8%,
Net Price: $24,167,
SAT Range: 1460-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: UC Berkeley has a variety of student experiences academic opportunities. In terms of common/popular majors, seeing from my first year, many students study Computer Science/EECS, Data Science, Psychology, or Pre-Haas (Business). ...However, one of the biggest disadvantages of the Berkeley/Bay Area area is the high cost of living. In addition, UC Berkeley only guarantees dorm housing for first-years, so figuring out arrangements for off-campus housing in the future is a burden many students have to face early into their college experience. But as long as you stay on top of your research, and keep in mind your budget, that can be overcome. ...Overall, the key to success at UC Berkeley is awareness. Be grounded in your goals and taking the initiative to reach them!Read 4,196 Reviews
#13 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
University of California - Berkeley
4 Year,
BERKELEY, CA,
4196 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says UC Berkeley has a variety of student experiences academic opportunities. In terms of common/popular majors, seeing from my first year, many students study Computer Science/EECS, Data Science,...However, one of the biggest disadvantages of the Berkeley/Bay Area area is the high cost of living. In addition, UC Berkeley only guarantees dorm housing for first-years, so figuring out arrangements...Overall, the key to success at UC Berkeley is awareness. Be grounded in your goals and taking the initiative to reach them!.
Read 4196 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 17%,
Net Price: $19,329,
SAT Range: 1310-1530,
Will You Get In?Compare
Sophomore: As a parent of a sophmore in Visual Arts and Writing programs, I feel so grateful she got in. First of all she got a full ride, they removed a massive strain off of our family and did it completely and thoroughly. She had met and spoken with several faculty members before applying (Early Decision) and visited the campus, and they were so helpful and supportive it really allowed us to make a confident Early Decision. My daughter is gifted, but shy shy shy, and her mother is Brazilian, so VERY attached and we worried about sending her away. It was tough, but the support of programs like Deneb Stars and the many other programs (including late night escorts for safety) allowed her to make the leap and find her feet. Once the pandemic hit, WashU was amongst the first half dozen schools to move online (they are now hybrid, my daughter is working from home). The faculty and admin prioritized their health first, while the coursework has remained rigorous. She is thriving. A+ response Washu!...Read 1,500 Reviews
#14 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Washington University in St. Louis
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SAINT LOUIS, MO,
1500 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says As a parent of a sophmore in Visual Arts and Writing programs, I feel so grateful she got in. First of all she got a full ride, they removed a massive strain off of our family and did it completely....
Read 1500 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 16%,
Net Price: $27,233,
SAT Range: 1480-1560,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Alum: I was a student at the JHU Peabody Conservatory of Music. I believe firmly that institutions will not support you unless you advocate for yourself. Because I advocated for myself, I was granted lots of different opportunities to grow and perform while enrolled. Peabody is now working to expand the amount of public engagement and community performance its students participate in, which I think is a good thing. Overall, I encountered great professors who were thorough, knowledgeable, and intentional in their academic practice. The music faculty is top tier, too. You get out of this school what you put into it!...Read 1,343 Reviews
#15 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Johns Hopkins University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BALTIMORE, MD,
1343 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I was a student at the JHU Peabody Conservatory of Music. I believe firmly that institutions will not support you unless you advocate for yourself. Because I advocated for myself, I was granted lots....
Read 1343 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 11%,
Net Price: $25,241,
SAT Range: 1470-1560,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Freshman: The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor offers many amazing things for college students. First, the campus is naturally beautiful with many events and organizations taking place the first few weeks within central campus and even more on the diag. This campus is not only beautiful but also offers many spots to sit with your friends and study. Whether that be swinging in a hammock under some of the trees or sitting over by Ingalls Mall. Furthermore, the professors care for their students and find time to listen to advice and questions often asked by students. This allows for students to have a voice in some of the things they learn, how the class is conducted and allows for them to better understand the material. The University also has a very diverse and amazing social life in which there is something for everyone. Student Government, feeding squirrels, and even intermural sports, you can even create your own club if there isn't one that fits you!...Read 4,412 Reviews
#16 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ANN ARBOR, MI,
4412 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor offers many amazing things for college students. First, the campus is naturally beautiful with many events and organizations taking place the first few weeks....
Read 4412 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 26%,
Net Price: $17,832,
SAT Range: 1340-1520,
Will You Get In?Compare
Sophomore: I like the coursework at CMU! It's both challenging and exciting. We also have a vibrant extracurricular scene, and student services like career counseling are useful. Although the scheduling system could be improved, my overall experience with CMU has been positive. I would recommend it, particularly for potential applicants interested in engineering, computer science, drama, or architecture...Read 1,421 Reviews
#17 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Carnegie Mellon University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PITTSBURGH, PA,
1421 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I like the coursework at CMU! It's both challenging and exciting. We also have a vibrant extracurricular scene, and student services like career counseling are useful. Although the scheduling system....
Read 1421 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 17%,
Net Price: $36,983,
SAT Range: 1460-1560,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Alum: I graduated summa cum laude from Vanderbilt University in 2021 with a Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience. I primarily chose to attend Vandy for its academic prowess, and it definitely lived up to that reputation. In retrospect, I loved the majority of my STEM classes, and I find that my education was well-rounded because of my required liberal arts classes. The campus is beautiful, the food is relatively good, and on-campus housing is average. Admittedly, I was excited to live off-campus for my last two years (but beware - living in Nashville is not cheap). Socially, I had a great time at Vandy, especially thanks to the liveliness of Nashville, but sadly not due to Vanderbilt sports - this is not their strong suit. I met lifelong friends at this school! Realistically, however, many students do come from wealthy backgrounds, which can be off-putting at times. Ultimately, while undeniably expensive, Vanderbilt is a great school that will certainly work to your advantage after graduation...Read 1,299 Reviews
#18 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Vanderbilt University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NASHVILLE, TN,
1299 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I graduated summa cum laude from Vanderbilt University in 2021 with a Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience. I primarily chose to attend Vandy for its academic prowess, and it definitely lived up to that....
Read 1299 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 12%,
Net Price: $25,804,
SAT Range: 1470-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
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 138 Reviews
#19 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Harvey Mudd College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CLAREMONT, CA,
138 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says 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....
Read 138 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 14%,
Net Price: $37,192,
SAT Range: 1490-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Graduate Student: As soon as you walk on to campus you feel accepted; a feeling of home and success takes over the atmosphere and you’re right there in middle of it all. Breathe it in. Yes! That’s the smell of success at a high rate. I absolutely love the aesthetics of the University of California at Los Angeles, and UCLA also is the home of many successful and professional individuals across the globe. I plan to attend UCLA to obtain my doctorate degree in Public Health this upcoming Spring...God has always provided for me in so many ways than just one. When I first visited the University of California at Los Angeles I was intrigued by the beauty of how the campus and its landscape. Now, I get to join the talented and eager minds that embody this institution of higher learning. The most important thing I want to learn while studying there is how to improve the lives and mental health of our communities, cities, state and eventually on a larger scale and globally. Thanks for the opportunity to share!...Read 5,285 Reviews
#20 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
University of California - Los Angeles
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LOS ANGELES, CA,
5285 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Graduate Student says As soon as you walk on to campus you feel accepted; a feeling of home and success takes over the atmosphere and you’re right there in middle of it all. Breathe it in. Yes! That’s the smell of success...God has always provided for me in so many ways than just one. When I first visited the University of California at Los Angeles I was intrigued by the beauty of how the campus and its landscape. Now,....
Read 5285 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 14%,
Net Price: $16,474,
SAT Range: 1300-1530,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: Bowdoin has the most friendly, welcoming people I have ever met. Bowdoin is very LGBTQ-friendly. It is quite heterogeneous, and everyone seems to feel comfortable being themselves. The professors are all insanely qualified and bright. Bowdoin offers great financial aid, and is one of few colleges to have need-blind, no-loan financial aid (meaning the College gives you grants instead of loans in its financial aid package). The campus is scenic, outdoorsy...The party scene for freshmen is mainly basement parties at the College Houses (Bowdoin's alternative to Greek life). These parties don't serve alcohol, so you must pregame (if you want) elsewhere. However, these parties are advertised campus-wide, so everyone is invited/ included. After freshman year, students mainly party in dorms or apartments with their friend groups. ...One qualm about Bowdoin: it is pretty intolerant to non-liberal/Democrat opinions. Conservatives, Republicans, and moderates are pretty closeted and silenced.Read 710 Reviews
#21 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Bowdoin College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BRUNSWICK, ME,
710 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Bowdoin has the most friendly, welcoming people I have ever met. Bowdoin is very LGBTQ-friendly. It is quite heterogeneous, and everyone seems to feel comfortable being themselves. The professors are...The party scene for freshmen is mainly basement parties at the College Houses (Bowdoin's alternative to Greek life). These parties don't serve alcohol, so you must pregame (if you want) elsewhere....One qualm about Bowdoin: it is pretty intolerant to non-liberal/Democrat opinions. Conservatives, Republicans, and moderates are pretty closeted and silenced..
Read 710 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 9%,
Net Price: $25,622,
SAT Range: 1360-1510,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Graduate Student: I am an ABSN student that started when everything was virtual due to COVID and I am only here for a year (keep this in mind). The campus is BEAUTIFUL and huge! The professors are really invested in your education. Parking is HORRIBLE if you do not time it right or try to get around without a parking pass. The parking lots are a good walk away from the buildings most of the time so add walking time to your commute if you are a grad student. Student Health is phenomenal. Cocoa Cinnamon is a great coffee shop that everyone should try at least once to get coffee (tea or hot chocolate) and churros. The city of Durham is beautiful so explore it if you get a chance...Read 1,147 Reviews
#22 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Duke University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
DURHAM, NC,
1147 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Graduate Student says I am an ABSN student that started when everything was virtual due to COVID and I am only here for a year (keep this in mind). The campus is BEAUTIFUL and huge! The professors are really invested in....
Read 1147 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 8%,
Net Price: $26,932,
SAT Range: 1470-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Junior: I am a transfer student athlete and am planning to attend Dartmouth in the fall. What I loved on my visit was the family atmosphere amongst the faculty and the close relationships they had with their students. I believe that it is important to put an emphasis on undergraduate education and Dartmouth does that the best in comparison to any other school in the nation. From an athletic standpoint I feel like Dartmouth has all the tools and facilities to help me achieve my athletic goals. Coming from an institution that gives athletic scholarships, Ivy leagues do not have that availability. I felt like the experiences and relationships that I would build would make it worth it to apply for scholarships online. Thank you!...Read 710 Reviews
#23 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
Dartmouth College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
HANOVER, NH,
710 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says I am a transfer student athlete and am planning to attend Dartmouth in the fall. What I loved on my visit was the family atmosphere amongst the faculty and the close relationships they had with....
Read 710 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 9%,
Net Price: $24,525,
SAT Range: 1440-1560,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: Notre Dame has a great school spirit and campus life. In addition to a top-tier, rigorous education you can also enjoy your time at college. Everyone is super collaborative, friendly, and extremely accepting regardless of differences. The faculty is super acceptable and want to speak to you or help you with coursework when needed. People have close-knit friendships with their dorms and all partake in signature traditions. Plus the campus is awesome!...Read 1,368 Reviews
#24 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
University of Notre Dame
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NOTRE DAME, IN,
1368 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Notre Dame has a great school spirit and campus life. In addition to a top-tier, rigorous education you can also enjoy your time at college. Everyone is super collaborative, friendly, and extremely....
Read 1368 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 19%,
Net Price: $29,981,
SAT Range: 1400-1550,
Will You Get In?Compare
Junior: UT Austin is such an amazing campus and school! It is unique in that its students appreciate and are accepting of people from different backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. The school is located in downtown Austin where there are lots of opportunities to network. The curriculum can be rigorous and it can be difficult to connect with teachers due to larger class sizes, but if you are able to then the experiences are worth it. The only uncontrollable downsides are the increasing housing costs and the Texas heat during the fall. The school could also improve on its commitment to diversity. But for the quality of education I have received at its cost, I know I chose the right place...Read 6,354 Reviews
#25 Best Colleges for Physics in America.
University of Texas - Austin
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
AUSTIN, TX,
6354 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says UT Austin is such an amazing campus and school! It is unique in that its students appreciate and are accepting of people from different backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. The school is located in....
Read 6354 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 32%,
Net Price: $16,892,
SAT Range: 1210-1470,
Will You Get In?Compare
Sponsored
Junior: Truman State University offers a great and well rounded education. The small class sizes allow you to interact with and create relationships with your professors on a personal level. Since Truman is a smaller school there is a lot of opportunities to create connections that will help in your next steps towards you career after completing your undergraduate degree, whether that be stepping into the working world or going to grad school. Truman also has lots of organizations and clubs to get involved on campus with other students. These range from social to professional organizations, all of which have leadership opportunities that can help you grow as an individual...Read 1,036 Reviews
Sponsored Result, Truman State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
KIRKSVILLE, MO,
1036 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Truman State University offers a great and well rounded education. The small class sizes allow you to interact with and create relationships with your professors on a personal level. Since Truman is....
Read 1036 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 72%,
Net Price: $12,621,
SAT Range: 1150-1350,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Sponsored
Sophomore: I love being a Temple student so much! Philadelphia is a great place to start your life as a young adult, the city giving you so many opportunities for great experiences with friends. Professors at Temple can be pretty understanding as well, aside from certain professors you can find on rate my professor! The only reason I couldn’t give a 5 star rating is that some departments at Temple can be pretty unclear and confusing for students, which isn’t ideal when assimilating into college life. Food at Temple as a freshman is not great also. The dining hall is super dependent on the kitchens efforts that day, leading to some really nasty dinners and a dependence on Chick-fil-a. Besides that, I love Temple and the people that come to the school! :)...Read 5,555 Reviews
Sponsored Result, Temple University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PHILADELPHIA, PA,
5555 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I love being a Temple student so much! Philadelphia is a great place to start your life as a young adult, the city giving you so many opportunities for great experiences with friends. Professors at....
Read 5555 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 60%,
Net Price: $23,254,
SAT Range: 1010-1230,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour

current page for search results

1 of 38

About This List

Where Niche Grades come from and how Niche calculates rankings.

Quick References

Rank	School Name	Location
1	Massachusetts Institute of Technology	Cambridge, MA
2	California Institute of Technology	Pasadena, CA
3	Yale University	New Haven, CT
4	Harvard University	Cambridge, MA
5	Stanford University	Stanford, CA
6	Princeton University	Princeton, NJ
7	University of Chicago	Chicago, IL
8	Cornell University	Ithaca, NY
9	Rice University	Houston, TX
10	Columbia University	New York, NY
11	Brown University	Providence, RI
12	University of Pennsylvania	Philadelphia, PA
13	University of California - Berkeley	Berkeley, CA
14	Washington University in St. Louis	Saint Louis, MO
15	Johns Hopkins University	Baltimore, MD
16	University of Michigan - Ann Arbor	Ann Arbor, MI
17	Carnegie Mellon University	Pittsburgh, PA
18	Vanderbilt University	Nashville, TN
19	Harvey Mudd College	Claremont, CA
20	University of California - Los Angeles	Los Angeles, CA
21	Bowdoin College	Brunswick, ME
22	Duke University	Durham, NC
23	Dartmouth College	Hanover, NH
24	University of Notre Dame	Notre Dame, IN
25	University of Texas - Austin	Austin, TX

2022 Best Colleges for Physics in America

Best programs

Students

Social scene

Campus

Athletics

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

California Institute of Technology

California Institute of Technology

Yale University

Yale University

North Carolina Central University

Sponsored Result, North Carolina Central University

Harvard University

Harvard University

Stanford University

Stanford University

Princeton University

Princeton University

University of Chicago

University of Chicago

Cornell University

Cornell University

Rice University

Rice University

Columbia University

Columbia University

Brown University

Brown University

University of Pennsylvania

University of Pennsylvania

University of California - Berkeley

University of California - Berkeley

Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University in St. Louis

Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University

Harvey Mudd College

Harvey Mudd College

University of California - Los Angeles

University of California - Los Angeles

Bowdoin College

Bowdoin College

Duke University

Duke University

Dartmouth College

Dartmouth College

University of Notre Dame

University of Notre Dame

University of Texas - Austin

University of Texas - Austin

Truman State University

Sponsored Result, Truman State University

Temple University

Sponsored Result, Temple University

Quick References