Physics Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Study of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature.
Starting Salary
$60K
median
Mid-Career
$105K
salary
ROI Payback
4.5 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
3.8%
rate
Physics Overview
Study of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature.
Category
STEM
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
65%
Enrollment Trend
stable
Online Available
Limited
Underemployment
20%
Lifetime Premium
$750K
Female Graduates
25%
Physics Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$18,900
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$18,900
after scholarships
ROI Payback
1 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$731,100
Lifetime earnings premium ($750,000) minus net degree cost ($18,900)
Physics Salary Progression
Common Physics Careers
Physicist
Research Scientist
Lab Engineer
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Physics
#1
MIT
#2
Caltech
#3
Stanford
#4
Princeton
#5
Harvard
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Physics Degree FAQ
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