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2025 Best Online Degrees in Physics

By Jennifer King Logan • Edited by Bailey Fletcher • Updated 10/2/2025

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Our list of the best online degree physics programs features only accredited schools, ranked by the number of students graduating with this degree.

Key Takeaways:

  • At #1, Liberty University offers an online BS in Physics that produced 20 graduates as of last year. 
  • Arizona State University Online ranks #1 for online enrollment with 52,896 learners, placing it at the top nationally among the most popular online schools. 

Read our methodology for details on rankings, data sources, and inclusion criteria.

%%YEAR%% Best Online %%LEVEL_NAME%% in %%PROGRAM_NAME%% Badge %%YEAR%% Best Online %%LEVEL_NAME%% in %%PROGRAM_NAME%% Badge

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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Featured Popular UUֱs

2025 Best Online Degrees in Physics

Tuition numbers were manually collected and verified where noted
Over 90,000 student surveys informed our recommendation rates
Rank School Graduates Annual Tuition Median Salary Recommendation
# 1 #1 Liberty University 20 $11,700 N/A 75%
# 2 #2 Arizona State University, Online 5 $24,780 $73,544 93%

  • Graduates: 20
  • Annual Tuition: $11,700
  • Median Salary: N/A
  • Recommendation: 75%

Why we like them: Ranked #1 for total graduates in online physics bachelor’s programs, LU awarded 20 degrees most recently, which tells you there is an active cohort here that can help strengthen peer learning, collaboration, and alumni networking. LU's online physics degree has true hands‑on labs at home. You receive a sensor kit that pairs with the university’s MATLAB site license for real‑time data acquisition and analysis, so you practice electronics, microcontrollers, sensors, and MATLAB workflows rather than simulations alone.

  • Graduates: 5
  • Annual Tuition: $24,780
  • Median Salary: $73,544
  • Recommendation: 93%

Why we like them: Ranked #2, ASU’s online physics program is considerably smaller and graduated just five students in this field recently. ASU is the very first university to deliver an online BS in physics that includes advanced laboratory coursework. We appreciate how you complete upper‑division labs using shipped electronic kits and high‑fidelity simulations that train you on equipment alignment protocols and managing noisy data. You can secure mentored research through the Online Undergraduate Research Scholars program, giving you structured research access as a fully online learner.

How We Define “Best” and Why It Can Help You Choose the Right Online Degree in Physics For You

We rank programs by the highest number of graduates in the specific online physics bachelor’s program. 

For a lab-heavy, math-intensive major, completions matter because they can show that a program has consistent course rotations, active cohorts (peers to problem-solve with), advisor attention calibrated to known pain points (E&M, quantum, advanced labs), and alumni who’ve actually made it through the online path. 

The Numbers at a Glance

Programs on this list: 2

Most recent online physics grads: Liberty (20), ASU Online (5)

Retention rate: Liberty 79%, ASU 85%

Graduation rate: Liberty 63%, ASU 68%

Student-to-faculty ratio: Liberty 18:1, ASU 21:1

UUֱ enrollment: Liberty 39,168, ASU 52,896 (both sit within very large online ecosystems.)

Program-specific earnings (available): ASU Online $73,544, Liberty not reported

Recommendation rate: Liberty 75%, ASU 93% (from our survey base)

Why “Graduates per Program” Is a Big Deal in Physics

Physics online is still exceptionally rare compared to fields like business, psychology, or even engineering technology. There are only two online bachelor’s in physics programs in our ranking, which reflects the demand side (smaller national interest in pursuing physics online) and the supply side (the logistical complexity of delivering lab-heavy, math-intensive coursework virtually).



Physics online is still exceptionally rare... 


Unlike majors that adapt more easily to asynchronous lectures and discussion boards, physics requires sequential math prerequisites, advanced lab rotations, and problem-set collaboration that don’t always translate seamlessly online. Shipping experimental kits, replicating data acquisition environments, and offering reliable faculty support for upper-division courses like thermodynamics or quantum mechanics are not trivial tasks. Many universities opt to keep physics in person, where lab access is straightforward.

That’s exactly why steady completions in the two existing programs are so meaningful. They illustrate the programs' strengths:

  • Course availability → predictable rotations for upper-division mechanics, E&M, and lab blocks

  • More classmates → stronger problem-set collaboration and study groups

  • Labs  → proven logistics for shipping kits, running data-acquisition workflows, and troubleshooting remotely

  • Evidence that the path is doable → critical for a sequence-dependent major 

Choosing Like a Physicist: Match the Signal to Your Use Case

Need proven throughput for upper-division labs? Favor the graduates metric; Liberty’s #1 position suggests steady capstone/lab flows.

Want research and a graduate runway? ASU’s OURS + accelerated MS create a straightforward path toward advanced education in physics. 

Care about peer density and online support services? Both are huge online universities. ASU is the largest, however, which can translate to more tutoring windows and predictable rotations.

Prefer tactile lab builds with MATLAB integration? Liberty’s hardware-plus-software lab stack is a differentiator.

Looking for program-specific outcomes? ASU publishes a median salary of $73,544 for this program just four years after graduation. You may also be curious about our student recommendation rates (Liberty 75%; ASU 93%), drawn from 90,000+ surveys we've collected across online schools. 

Online Physics Bachelor's Degrees You May Be Interested In


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FAQs About an Online Degree in Physics

What Can You Expect From an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Physics?


Physics is the study of the fundamental elements of the universe, like matter, energy, gravity, motion, and force. An online bachelor’s degree in physics provides students with the fundamentals of physics, including energy and power, chemistry, physical science, and motion. Students will take coursework in the application and theory of the universe's fundamental forces. In addition, prospective online students can expect to engage in immersive learning through coursework and lab work. Prospective physics students will benefit from choosing a program at an online college or university that has earned institutional accreditation from a national or regional accrediting agency. 

Online physics bachelor's degrees cover a range of topics about the natural forces that shape our universe. A physics curriculum usually has 120 credit hours and includes classes in wave physics, relativity, electromagnetism, quantum and classical mechanics, optics, and thermodynamics. 

In addition to general physics classes, students often take courses in calculus and advanced mathematics, chemistry, astronomy, geology, computer science, and the humanities. Some programs feature optional concentrations to help physics students specialize, though this is more common at the graduate level. Administrators design bachelor's degrees to last four years, though many students take longer to finish.

Physics bachelor's degree graduates might qualify for teaching or laboratory jobs, but becoming a full-fledged physicist calls for a doctorate with a dissertation requirement.

Most online physics degree programs have asynchronous classes. This means that you can view lecture recordings, complete online modules, and submit assignments in a learning management system at convenient times as long as you respect due dates.

All degrees in physics require hands-on laboratory research. Some colleges might mail you at-home lab kits for certain assignments, but you may also need to do some work in a dedicated physics lab, either at a local community college or during an on-campus session at your school. Ask admissions counselors about the expectations for in-person work if you take a physics degree online. 

What Courses Are Included in an Online Physics Degree?


A physics curriculum features classwork in physics theory and practical lab applications. In the later years of a bachelor's in physics degree, students can choose upper-level electives to explore topics that interest them, such as nanotechnology, cosmology, or lasers. But the courses below typically belong to a general physics core; you're likely to encounter variations of these classes no matter where you go to college.

  • Calculus: Many physics programs require a sequence of courses based on calculus, the mathematics of change, and motion. Faculty typically cover vector calculus, complex variables, integral theorems, and space-time problems. 
  • Differential Equations: This course describes how a change in one variable affects other variables, which is important in describing the physical world. Students work on ordinary and partial differential equations, linear and nonlinear equations, and separation of variables.
  • Quantum Mechanics: Instructors in this class teach one of the major advances in 20th-century physics. They might discuss angular momentum, nonrelativism, hydrogen atoms, and the potential uses of quantum theory in other fields.
  • Thermodynamics: This class describes the physical properties of heat and how it relates to other types of energy. Students often learn the classical laws of thermodynamics before moving to more recent advances. They typically learn statistical mechanics to help calculate thermodynamic properties.

What Concentrations Are Available in an Online Physics Degree?


As with many sciences, physics has some crossover with other disciplines. This means that a number of online physics degrees offer specialized concentrations that can help you tailor your program to your interests.

We've highlighted some of the most common physics concentrations below:

  • Applied Physics | Applied physics involves the practical uses of physics knowledge in building or production. The extra coursework typically covers electromagnetism, chemistry, and some engineering classes.
  • Astrophysics | The study of space involves a great deal of physics. This concentration usually features electives on astronomy and geology.
  • Computational Physics | This specialty uses mathematical modeling tools to simulate problems in physics. Students take extra classes in computational methods and scientific computing.

What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Physics Degree?


Professionals in physics can enjoy intricate, fulfilling careers that benefit society. For example, some physicists help design equipment for surgical procedures or chemical processing, while others discover new solar systems in far-off galaxies. Physicists might teach and conduct cutting-edge research for universities, government-owned laboratories, or private firms. 

However, most research and teaching positions in physics require you to hold a doctoral degree in physics. Those with a bachelor's degree can apply for other jobs, either as careers or while studying for an advanced degree.

Below, we've listed a few examples of occupations that bachelor's graduates in physics can pursue.

High School Teachers

Most public high schools offer physics classes at the upper levels, so physics majors could get a chance to use their subject matter knowledge as . Note that it takes a state license to become a teacher, which could require some extra coursework in education.

Clinical Laboratory Technologists

Physics graduates might use their knowledge as . These professionals collect and test physical samples for medical analysis, so familiarity with safe and effective lab procedures is crucial.

Forensic Science Technicians

process evidence to be used in investigations and trials. As members of the criminal justice system, they must learn to respect the chain of evidence to ensure that prosecutions are fair and accurate.

Occupational Health and Safety Specialists

ensure that employers meet government guidelines for the safety of their workers. Physics majors might find their knowledge especially useful in facilities that produce radiation, such as medical, environmental, and industrial settings. The offers certification for health physicists looking to advance their careers.

Considering a physics PhD? You can search for potential programs using our lists of the best online colleges for doctoral programs and the most affordable online doctoral degrees.

How Hard Is a Physics Degree?


Physics is arguably one of the most challenging fields of science to study, and it is essential that those who plan to enter a physics program have an extremely strong grasp of mathematics (especially calculus), a broad understanding of the natural sciences, and the focus needed to conduct careful analytical research.

What Degree Do You Need to Be a Physics Teacher?


You can potentially become a high school physics teacher if you earn a bachelor's degree in physics. You'll need to pass a state licensure or certification exam in high school science education, which some states won't let you take unless you have at least some coursework in pedagogy and teaching. The more usual path to becoming a physics teacher is by earning an education bachelor's degree with a focus in science. Check out our list of the most affordable online education degrees if this sounds appealing.

You'll generally need a master's degree in physics to teach at the community college level and a doctorate to teach at a four-year college or university.

Can I Be an Engineer With a Physics Degree?


You probably can't get an engineering job if you don't have a bachelor's degree in engineering. You may be able to double major in physics and some type of engineering, but this would require careful planning with your academic advisor and might not be allowed at all schools.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Physics Degree?


College administrators design bachelor's degrees to take four years with a full-time schedule. But most students actually take longer than this for a variety of reasons — such as work, family obligations, or switching majors — with the most recent government data suggesting that the . A few students do manage to graduate college early, but this takes a fairly rare set of conditions. 

Student Reviews of Online Physics Programs

Connor Aghili, Graduated 2017

Attended: Pennsylvania State University

This program is a research heavy focused program. That being said I would advocate a service in which students are more familiar with industry jobs. This degree program seems mostly focused on pushing undergraduate students to go towards graduate school. The education is to notch but more real world applications is needed to give students a greater application in the subject they are studying. However if your focus is on education and research then this program is for you. The school offers a state... Read More

Review Date: 11/18/2018

Attended: Pennsylvania State University

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 3/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Connor Aghili, Graduated 2017

Brandon Whisman, Graduated 2021

Attended: West Chester University of Pennsylvania

My school has a fantastic opportunity for new students, and returning students to excel in their fields of study. All without getting caught up in the city life. West Chester is a very nice and quiet school to attend. Most of the classes all take place within walking distance of each other which is very convenient. The thing I enjoy the most about my school is the scenery and the environment. This is because the school focuses very hard on providing an appealing look to their students. All of the... Read More

Review Date: 3/31/2017

Attended: West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Overall Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Brandon Whisman, Graduated 2021

SciStudent, Graduated 2021

Attended: Stockton University

Awful. The department is way too small. If you end up with a professor that dislikes you, good luck getting away from them because they teach every class and are also your advisor. And they will hire a professor that was previously fired from a job for sexual harassment. Espouses about inclusivity and diversity but really does not care and only wants your money. Is NOT taking a deadly pandemic seriously and currently has over 200 cases of Covid. 1/10 would not go there again. An embarrassment to... Read More

Review Date: 11/19/2020

Attended: Stockton University

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 1/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

SciStudent, Graduated 2021

Cha, Graduated 2020

Attended: SUNY Oneonta

SUNY Oneonta isn't inherently a bad school per se. The professors in the sciences are all very outgoing and a pleasure to learn from. However, this school LIED to me not only about the prospects of my degree, but also LIED when coordinating my education when transferring. I transferred to this college from another SUNY school to save on tuition. Before attending Oneonta, I coordinated my degree track with academic advisors from BOTH campuses (all documented via emails and paper), with the understanding... Read More

Review Date: 11/8/2021

Attended: SUNY Oneonta

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 1/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Cha, Graduated 2020

Annie Daye, Graduated 2020

Attended: Georgia Institute of Technology

The Materials Science and Engineering community at Georgia Tech is very supportive and has improved my experience. Coming to Tech, I wanted a university that would allow me to conduct cutting-edge research as an undergraduate student. I wanted a place that would be supportive of hands on learning. I have been able to do this and have been surrounded by peers that are also interested in research.

The classes are challenging at Georgia Tech but I believe that anyone who really wants to be an engineer... Read More

Tech has allowed me to get internships easily compared to other universities.

Review Date: 7/12/2019

Attended: Georgia Institute of Technology

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 4/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Annie Daye, Graduated 2020

Emily LaPrime, Graduated 2019

Attended: Southeastern Louisiana University

Southeastern Louisiana University is a highly underrated haven for academia. Being a smaller university, there is more opportunity to be recognized as an individual and not just a number. The faculty and staff all genuinely care about the students who attend, and they want to help students succeed in any way possible.

Review Date: 11/8/2019

Attended: Southeastern Louisiana University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Emily LaPrime, Graduated 2019

Renee, Graduated 2019

Attended: University of Louisville

The physics program is great. The counselors are very helpful and the classes are hard without being hopelessly and frustratingly difficult, which can not be said for a lot of programs here. However, the physics program is the best part of my experience at this school. I've had endless difficulties with the professors outside of my major, and the financial aid department single-handledly halted my education for 3 semesters now. That being said, the campus is beautiful, it's very expensive, but it's... Read More

Review Date: 3/6/2018

Attended: University of Louisville

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 2/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Renee, Graduated 2019

Lauren Corby, Graduated 2018

Attended: University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is an institution where the faculty want to see you accomplish your goals and will go physically out of their way to see you succeed. This was imperative when it came to my studies since I was an athlete, I would often miss class and required to make up assignments, quizzes, and tests. For campus life, this institution is filled with high-energy and great school spirit. Just like any university, it is what you make it. Soak up every minute of your college... Read More

Review Date: 9/29/2019

Attended: University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Lauren Corby, Graduated 2018

Lauren Corby, Graduated 2018

Attended: University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is an institution where the faculty want to see you accomplish your goals and will go physically out of their way to see you succeed. This was imperative when it came to my studies since I was an athlete, I would often miss class and required to make up assignments, quizzes, and tests. For campus life, this institution is filled with high-energy and great school spirit. Just like any university, it is what you make it. Soak up every minute of your college... Read More

Review Date: 9/29/2019

Attended: University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Lauren Corby, Graduated 2018

Janos Botyanszki, Graduated 2018

Attended: University of California - Berkeley

World class faculty, intelligent peers, and one of the best places to live in the US. The spirit of Berkeley is unlike any other university town and the diversity in terms of people, dining, and activities is vast. The program has a good set of core classes and there are many opportunities to take electives in other departments. All classes are taught by genius, unpretentious professors who are helpful, knowledgeable, and sometimes even comedic.

Review Date: 9/18/2013

Attended: University of California - Berkeley

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Janos Botyanszki, Graduated 2018

Miguel Montes, Graduated 2018

Attended: Drexel University

As a Physics student attending a Physics and Engineering focused university, I could not have felt more comfortable and welcomed in my classes as well as among my peers. Since the Physics program is somewhat exclusive, every year there are only around 15 Freshman enrolled as Physics majors, the professors have plenty of time to attend to their students, as well as get to know them on a level that most efficiently facilitates learning and advancement. I would recommend Drexel University to anyone... Read More

Review Date: 8/22/2016

Attended: Drexel University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Miguel Montes, Graduated 2018

Patrick, Graduated 2017

Attended: St Olaf College

St. Olaf is an excellent place for students to continue their education. It provides a very hands on and personal style of learning. Because of the small student to faculty ratio, students are able to develop personal relationships with their professors, this relationship allows students to get the full attention of their professors. The school also provides rigorous curriculum, challenging even the brightest of students. Overall, St. Olaf gives students an excellent education that provides close... Read More

Review Date: 3/10/2017

Attended: St Olaf College

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Patrick, Graduated 2017

Daniel, Graduated 2017

Attended: University of Missouri - Kansas City

I have been to multiple schools and this is the best school that I have attended. The general classes were very well balanced and helped me get a deeper understanding of life. The students and faculty of the Physics department are very enthusiastic, helpful and focused.

Review Date: 8/6/2018

Attended: University of Missouri - Kansas City

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Daniel, Graduated 2017

Zachary Hartke, Graduated 2017

ASU is a college full of many incredible opportunities. These opportunities, however, are not freely given or, at times, advertised. So, to be very involved and successful at ASU, students need to take the initiative and put in additional work. While this may seem intimidating, it provides so many incredible opportunities later in life and is definitely worth the effort.

Review Date: 3/28/2017

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Zachary Hartke, Graduated 2017

Isabel Valverde, Graduated 2017

Attended: Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis

With the high ideals and expectations IUPUI achieves each day, the opportunities offered here can only benefit your future. I can assure you, you will take with you the skills and talents gained on campus to any workforce and fully lead, grow, and serve, but most of all, make a difference. IUPUI offers over 200+ degree programs. You also have to opportunity to take classes from two universities in one place, Indiana University and Purdue University. IUPUI is a culturally rich campus and offers many... Read More

Review Date: 10/25/2017

Attended: Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Isabel Valverde, Graduated 2017

Esme Parker, Graduated 2017

The quality of instruction at Arizona State University is first class. Many of my classes were less than 20 students, despite the university being on of the largest in the United States. I chose to continue my education at ASU by pursuing a master's degree.

Review Date: 9/27/2017

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Esme Parker, Graduated 2017

Sara Taylor, Graduated 2017

Attended: Portland State University

This university is suitable for students who can find their own way, but also know when to ask for help; assistance is not always given freely. Many of the faculty and staff are helpful when approached. The professors within the music department are easy to talk to and are all great teachers. The professors within the physics department are more traditional. If you find a good advisor, stick with him or her because sometimes, good advisors are difficult to find. I found that some of my physics professors... Read More

Review Date: 3/29/2017

Attended: Portland State University

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Sara Taylor, Graduated 2017

Ryan Perrin, Graduated 2017

Attended: Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Main Campus

The professors at the university were very compassionate and understanding, willing to work with you, and happy to provide career and life advice. Without the guidance of a number of faculty at the school I would not have done as well in my education as I have. In my interactions with the faculty I felt treated as an equal and not as a source of income. If I needed help with homework or advice with anything in life, they were willing to help. All of the faculty were passionate instructors and advisors.... Read More

Review Date: 7/21/2017

Attended: Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Main Campus

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Ryan Perrin, Graduated 2017

Vincenzo, Salvatore Giambanco, Graduated 2017

Attended: University of Mary Washington

I am unable to get a job with my physics education, but I’m very glad I got my education. It helped broaden my horizons. I learned a lot and had a great experience. I am unable to pay back my student loans. I gave thousands of hours of charity gave a lot of people throughout my life And I’m still unable to get a job just how the world is today I guess but I’m glad I got my education it means a lot

Review Date: 2/11/2024

Attended: University of Mary Washington

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Vincenzo, Salvatore Giambanco, Graduated 2017

Dan Brandt, Graduated 2016

Attended: Case Western Reserve University

The Physics curriculum at Case Western Reserve University is highly rigorous and places an emphasis on mathematical proficiency and theoretical extrapolation in addition to experimental methods. Its comprehensiveness and dearth of research opportunities presents students with a competitive environment where they quickly assume responsibilities fitting for a path to either industrial research, or academia. It should be noted that as a private research institution, Case's physics department is more... Read More

Review Date: 2/27/2017

Attended: Case Western Reserve University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Dan Brandt, Graduated 2016

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