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College Factual  by our College Data Analytics Team
       Unbiased Factual Guarantee

2025 Physics and Astronomy Degree Guide

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#356 Most Popular Major
55.0 Degrees Awarded
239 Schools Offering Degrees

Physics and Astronomy was the 356th most popular major in the 2021-2022 school year. Colleges in the United States reported awarding 55 degrees in this year alone.

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Our 2025 Best Physics and Astronomy Schools ranking analyzes 2 of these schools to determine the best overall colleges for physics and astronomy students. Continue reading to check out one of our many unbiased rankings of physics and astronomy programs later in this article.

2025 Best Colleges for Physics and Astronomy
2025 Overall Best Physics and Astronomy Colleges >

Best Physics and Astronomy Schools by Degree

Bachelor's Degrees in Physics and Astronomy
Master's Degrees in Physics and Astronomy
Doctorate Degrees in Physics and Astronomy
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Requirements for Getting a Degree in Physics and Astronomy

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Physics and Astronomy Degree Program Entry Requirements

New students will need to have completed high school or a GED program and each school will have their own minimum GPA and SAT/ACT test requirements. Once you obtain your degree, additional physics and astronomy certifications required to pursue a career in this field.

Physics and Astronomy Degree Types

There are various different levels of physics and astronomy degrees. Physics and Astronomy programs offered by schools range from a to a , which is the highest physics and astronomy degree you can get. The type of physics and astronomy degree you choose will determine how long it takes to get your diploma.

DegreeCredit RequirementsTypical Program Length
Associate Degree60-70 credits2 years
Bachelor’s Degree120 credits4 years
Master’s Degree50-70 credits1-3 years
DoctorateProgram required coursework including thesis or dissertationAt least 4 years

Career Opportunities for Physics and Astronomy Majors

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Physics and Astronomy Degree Salary Potential

As you might expect, salaries for physics and astronomy graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.

Top Ranking Lists for Physics and Astronomy

Best Schools
Physics and Astronomy

Best Value Colleges
Physics and Astronomy

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Physics and Astronomy is one of 8 different types of Physical Sciences programs to choose from.

Physics and Astronomy Concentrations

MajorAnnual Graduates
Physics and Astronomy55

View All Physics and Astronomy Focus Areas >

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Related MajorAnnual Graduates
Chemistry20,985
Physics13,447
Geological & Earth Sciences8,124
General Physical Sciences3,141
Astronomy & Astrophysics1,396

View All Physics and Astronomy Related Majors >

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References

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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