Physics

The Physics undergraduate program at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education in the fundamental principles governing the physical universe. Designed to cultivate analytical thinking, experimental skills, and theoretical understanding, the program prepares students for diverse careers in research, academia, industry, and beyond. The curriculum encompasses a broad spectrum of topics, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and astrophysics, enabling students to develop a strong foundation in both experimental and theoretical physics. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, cutting-edge research facilities, and close interactions with leading physicists, fostering an environment of innovation and discovery. Through their coursework and research projects, students gain practical experience in data analysis, computational modeling, and experimental techniques. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore connections between physics and other fields such as mathematics, engineering, and computer science. In their senior year, students can engage in advanced research under faculty supervision, often contributing to published scientific papers. Caltech's emphasis on small class sizes and personalized mentorship ensures that students receive dedicated guidance tailored to their academic interests and career goals. Graduates of the Physics program are well-equipped to pursue graduate studies, join scientific research teams, or enter technological and industrial sectors. Overall, the program aims to develop scientifically curious, innovative, and resourceful individuals who are prepared to contribute to the advancement of our understanding of the natural world.

The Advanced Physics Requirement is really a breadth requirement; it's purpose is to make sure students graduating from Caltech leave with a fairly broad knowledge of physics.  At the same time, students can choose what courses they take to satisfy this requirement, following their personal interests.

Course Substitutions for the Advanced Physics Requirement 
--What counts for what...

The Advanced Physics categories: 
Students need to take a minimum of a one-quarter course in six of the following eight categories:

• Elementary Particle Physics (EP)
• Nuclear Physics (NP)
• Atomic/Molecular/Optical Physics (AMO)
• Condensed Matter Physics (CMP)
• Gravitational Physics (GR)
• Astrophysics (AP)
• Mathematical Physics (MP)
• Interdisciplinary Physics (ID)

Acceptable courses for the Advanced Physics requirement:

• Ph101/Order-of-magnitude -- counts for ID or AP
• Ph102b/Physics of the Interstellar Medium -- counts for counts for AMO, AP or ID
• Ph103/Neuroscience -- counts for ID
• Ph103/Electrons in Nanostructures -- counts for CMP
• Ph103b/Spectroscopy -- counts for AMO, AP or ID
• Ph105/Topics in Classical Physics -- counts for ID
• Ph118/Low Noise Measurement AB, Physics of Measurement C -- any term counts for ID
• Ph127/Statistical Physics -- two terms counts for CMP or ID
• Ph129/Mathematical Methods of Physics -- any term counts for MP
• Ph130 -- any term counts for CMP
• Ph135/Applications of Quantum Mechanics -- individual terms count for AMO, CMP, NP, or EP, depending on content
• Ph135b/String Theory -- individual terms count for MP or EP
• Ph136a/Applications of Classical Physics (Stat Mech, Optics) -- counts for AMO or ID
• Ph136b/Applications of Classical Physics (Elasticity, Fluid Dynamics) -- counts for AP or ID
• Ph136c/Applications of Classical Physics (Plasma, GR) -- counts for GR
• Ph161 -- any term counts for MP or ID
• All physics courses numbering 200 count for something, depending on content
• Ph205/Relativistic Quantum Field Theory -- Ph205a counts for ID, or Ph205ab counts for Math; Ph205c counts for EP
• Ph210 -- any term counts for EP
• Ph217/Introduction to the Standard Model -- any term counts for EP

• Ph219/Quantum Computation -- any term counts for ID or MP
• Ph223/Advanced Condensed Matter Physics -- any term counts for CMP
• Ph229/Advanced Mathematical Methods of Physics -- any term counts for MP
• Ph230/Elementary Particle Theory -- any term counts for EP
• Ph231 -- any term counts for EP
• Ph232 -- any term counts for MP
• Ph235 -- any term counts for MP or EP
• Ph236/Relativity -- Ph236a counts for Gravitational; Ph236bc counts for Astrophysics
• Ph237/Gravitational Waves -- any term counts for GR
• Ph250/Introduction to String Theory -- any term counts for MP
• Ay121 -- counts for AP or AMO
• APh114 -- any term counts for CMP

Requirements

• Master's degree in the related area
• Statement of Purpose
• Include payment of the application fee or submit a fee waiver request. 
• Three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with your academic and/or work performance are required for all applicants. 
• Transcripts from all colleges or universities attended are required. Transcripts may be sent directly from the Registrar of the institution you attended or transcripts issued directly to the applicant, and so marked, are acceptable, and can be submitted online following the electronic submission process. If you attended Caltech as an undergraduate, you must request an official transcript from the Office of the Registrar. We cannot obtain one on your behalf. 
• Attach a CV or resume
• TOEFL

The Physics undergraduate program at the California Institute of Technology offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees are determined annually and are generally accessible to enrolled students, with detailed information provided on the official Caltech admissions and financial aid websites. The institute strives to ensure that all admitted students can afford their education regardless of financial background, providing a comprehensive financial aid program that includes scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities. Need-based financial aid is a prominent feature of Caltech’s support system; the institution conducts a thorough financial assessment to determine the level of aid each student requires, aiming to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need. In addition to need-based aid, Caltech offers merit-based scholarships that recognize academic excellence and potential in Physics and related fields.

Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile to be considered for federal, state, and institutional aid programs. The institute also provides resources for students to explore external scholarships, fellowships, and community waivers that can help lessen the financial burden. Work opportunities on campus, such as research assistantships and departmental employment, are available for qualifying students, allowing them to earn supplemental income while gaining valuable research experience. Caltech is committed to transparency in its financing studies, providing detailed cost estimates and financial planning resources to help students and families make informed decisions. Financial aid packages are tailored individually and often include a combination of grants, loans, and work-study awards, with the goal of minimizing debt for students upon graduation. Overall, the institute’s financing studies aim to make a top-tier Physics education accessible, equitable, and sustainable for students from diverse economic backgrounds.

The California Institute of Technology offers a comprehensive Physics undergraduate program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in both theoretical and experimental physics. The program emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and problem-solving skills, preparing students for diverse careers or advanced study in physics and related fields. The curriculum includes core courses in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and statistical mechanics, complemented by advanced options in astrophysics, condensed matter physics, particle physics, and biophysics. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects, often working closely with faculty members who are leading experts in their fields, providing hands-on experience and the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries. The program also fosters interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to explore related disciplines such as computer science, mathematics, and engineering to broaden their perspectives. Caltech's state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities serve as an excellent environment for experimental physics, supporting undergraduate and graduate research activities. The Physics department offers various seminars, colloquia, and workshops that keep students engaged with current scientific advancements. Additionally, the program prepares students for careers in academia, industry, government labs, or entrepreneurship, emphasizing the development of both fundamental scientific knowledge and practical skills. Graduates of the program often go on to pursue graduate studies at top universities or enter highly competitive research and development roles in industry. The close-knit community and low student-to-faculty ratio at Caltech ensure personalized guidance and mentorship throughout the program. Overall, Caltech’s Physics program aims to cultivate innovative scientists, equipped with a solid understanding of physical laws and the ability to apply their knowledge creatively to solve real-world problems.