Physics at NIU
Bachelor of Science

Investigate intricacies of matter and energy.

The universe is ruled by forces we can't see. By studying the interactions of matter and energy, physicists have developed tools for exploring these hidden aspects of the world. Their work has led to important innovations like lasers, microwaves and transistors. As a physics major, you'll learn about the physical laws that govern the universe and contribute to advances in technology.



I want every student who comes into my class to fall in love with physics.

ApplyFind Physics Scholarships

What Can I Do With a Physics Degree From NIU?

With your problem-solving ability, analytical skills and training in laboratory methods, you'll be prepared for careers in research, education and other fields.

Top skills reported by alumni:

  • Data analysis
  • New product development
  • Quality assurance
  • Research
  • Team management

Top fields alumni work in:

  • Aviation and aerospace
  • Education
  • Life sciences
  • Manufacturing
  • Military

Career Potential for NIU Physics Majors

Average mid-career salary:

$100,822

Top employers include:

  • Boeing
  • Danaher Corporation 
  • Fermilab
  • NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
  • US Army

Job titles include:

  • Chief executive officer
  • Data engineer
  • Postdoctoral research associate 
  • Software engineer
  • Theoretical physics teacher

Source: Steppingblocks, 2023

What to Expect as a Physics Major at NIU

You'll have access to many research opportunities, including at nearby Argonne Laboratory and Fermilab. With upper-division classes averaging fewer than 15 students, you'll receive personalized support from our world-class faculty. You can choose the emphasis that best meets your interests:

  • Applied physics
  • Professional physics for graduate study
  • Secondary school teaching

Explore physics courses.

How We’ll Help You Succeed

Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.

Earn your bachelor’s degree fast with our affordable tuition and fees. Any credit hours you take over 12 are free (per semester).

Prepare to thrive after graduation with personalized support from Career Services.

With our truth-in-tuition policy, you’ll get the same fixed tuition rate for four continuous years, whether you live in Illinois or another state.

Apply to NIU

First-year Students
(Freshman)

High School GPA

3.0 or higher?

You're guaranteed general NIU admission.

ACT/SAT SCORES

Not considered.

We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.

First-Year Application

Add us to your common app list

First-Year Application

Add us to your common app list

Transfer Students

ALL COLLEGES GPA

2.0 or higher?

You're guaranteed general NIU admission.

ALL COLLEGES GPA

3.0 or higher?

You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship
.

See how your credits transfer

Apply to NIU as a Transfer Student

See how your credits transfer

Apply to NIU as a Transfer Student

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