Applied Physics

Why Study Applied Physics?

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics degree program at Caltech recognizes that the first step to creating revolutionary technologies is understanding the underlying quantum mechanics, electromagnetic theory, thermodynamics, and materials physics that govern how our universe operates at its most fundamental level.

The applied physics option equips you with conceptual foundations and powerful analytical and experimental skills to tackle challenges at the intersection of physics, engineering, and mathematics. You will learn to design efficient solar cells or rocket parts, create medical devices using knowledge of microfluidics, and conduct experiments at the atomic level. If your passion lies in addressing healthcare or climate change challenges, building aerospace technology, or transforming computing, applied physics prepares you to turn theoretical understanding into practical solutions at the forefront of innovation.

Why Applied Physics at Caltech?

Caltech's bachelor's degree in applied physics empowers you to contribute to discoveries that change the world. Recently, our department published research on a new superconducting state that could revolutionize how electricity is conducted globally— work happening in the same labs where you'll develop your experimental skill set. The applied physics major offers remarkable flexibility in designing your course selections, opening up opportunities to combine areas like mechanical engineering, quantum physics, or computational methods to match your specific interests.

In advanced courses or Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF), you can collaborate directly with scientists tackling challenges in carbon capture, photonic chips, and other fields. You will also gain access to equipment often unavailable to undergraduates at other institutions. At Caltech, you can customize your applied physics education according to your interests and engage in research labs that equip you with the skills to surpass your scientific and career aspirations.

What You'll Learn

The applied physics curriculum builds on Caltech's core requirements with courses in foundational quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, optics, fluid mechanics, and experimental techniques essential for modern technology development. In Solid-State Electronics for Integrated Circuits, you'll study semiconductor device physics and fabrication methods while gaining hands-on experience with circuit design, lasers, optoelectronics, and microfluidics directly applicable to developing next-generation electronic components and sensors.

As an applied physics major, you'll pair theoretical understanding and practical laboratory skills through applied lab courses, where you'll work with research-grade equipment to investigate phenomena in plasmas, fiber optics, superconductivity, and other areas. The curriculum culminates in a senior thesis project where you'll conduct original research under faculty guidance, either experimental or theoretical, applying your knowledge to challenges in fields like renewable energy, telecommunications, or advanced materials.

View the Caltech catalog for degree requirements and curriculum information.

Who You'll Learn From

The Department of Applied Physics and Materials Science collaborates within the Division of Engineering and Applied Science and across campus, drawing on a history of pioneers like William A. Goddard, III, whose innovations span applied nanotechnology, atomic physics, fuel cells, and batteries. You'll study with faculty who are actively pioneering advances in sensors, photovoltaics, artificial photosynthesis, space solar power, medical imaging, health monitoring, and other applications of physics. Participating in a common core curriculum and interdisciplinary research opportunities allows you to build a network and apply your knowledge in any scientific field.

Career Possibilities

Applied physics majors at Caltech are uniquely prepared to enter various and interdisciplinary scientific and engineering fields after graduation. Students can select a course sequence tailored to their specific engineering application of interest, ranging from aerospace engineering to pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, or they can merge an interest in computing and technology to design new simulations, systems, or devices that apply physics principles. Possible career pathways include:

• Aerospace research physicist
• Biomedical technology designer
• Computational physicist
• Nanotechnology researcher
• Semiconductor device engineer
• Sustainability engineer

Curriculum Components and Prerequisites

After exploring applications of biology, chemistry, math, and engineering in the first-year core curriculum, applied physics majors are introduced to advanced topics in theoretical and applied physics. This balance ensures students understand how to use physical principles to solve concrete technological and engineering challenges. Key components of the applied physics curriculum include:

• Foundational and advanced applied physics lectures and labs
• Exposure to applied and computational math, material science, and engineering disciplines
• Advanced applied physics courses
• Choice of course sequence leading to a focus in areas such as aerospace, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, bioengineering, or another approved area

Pursue a Bachelor's in Applied Physics at Caltech

Caltech's applied physics major program connects fundamental scientific discoveries with practical innovations. Master complex physics and gain applied experience to advance our understanding of the physical world and tackle society's challenges, from engineering sensor technology for medical or aerospace applications to designing nanomaterials for efficient water treatment, creating predictive models for physical actions, engineering sustainable supply chain systems, and more.