Overview

The Physics programme at University of California, Santa Cruz offers an intellectually vibrant environment designed to prepare students for professional careers in modern science. This master's level curriculum provides a strong grounding in fundamental physical principles while exposing learners to cutting-edge research areas. Students benefit from a challenging academic framework that integrates theoretical study with practical experimental application.

Why Physics at University of California, Santa Cruz?

The university is a recognised leader in outstanding physics research, fostering a rich and challenging atmosphere for graduate study. Students gain access to world-class affiliated facilities, including the Santa Cruz Institute for Particle Physics (SCIPP) and the Materials Science and Engineering Initiative (MSEI). These resources allow for deep technical exploration and collaborative discovery.

The department maintains strong professional links with prestigious national and international laboratories. Collaborative opportunities exist with the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center, the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, and NASA Ames. These partnerships ensure that the curriculum remains at the forefront of global scientific developments and technological innovation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 15102 per year
National fee: USD 15102 per year
Local fee: USD 15924 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of complex physical systems and mathematical frameworks. Modules may include:

Theoretical Particle Physics
Experimental Particle Physics
Astrophysics and Cosmology
Condensed Matter Physics
Biophysics
Basic Physics
Research Methods

Careers with Physics

Graduates are equipped with the analytical and technical skills required for diverse roles in both academia and industry. The programme prepares individuals for specialised careers in theoretical and experimental research, focusing on sectors such as particle physics, cosmology, and biophysics. Many students transition into high-level positions within national laboratories and private research organisations.

The rigorous training in problem-solving and quantitative analysis also opens doors to industries beyond traditional physics. Alumni often find success in materials science, engineering initiatives, and technology development. The university's connections with entities like IBM, Xerox, and Bell Labs highlight the broad professional appeal of its graduates in the global job market.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Quantum Field Theory

Particle Astrophysics and Cosmology

General Relativity

Condensed Matter Physics

Advanced Condensed Matter Physics

Soft Condensed Matter Physics

Polymer Physics

Computational Physics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Cruz, United States

Disciplines

Physics View 398 other Masters in Physics in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

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IELTS

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Other requirements

General requirements

Transcripts

3 Letters of Recommendation

Résumé

A Statement of Purpose

A Personal History Statement

GPA 3.0

GRE Scores

Research Interests

English Language Competence

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

15102 USD / year

≈ 15102 USD / year
Out-of-State

15102 USD / year

≈ 15102 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

15924 USD / year

≈ 15924 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Cruz

United States

1710 - 2560 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Physics.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Cruz

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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