Iowa · Physics

Best Physics institutions in Iowa, ranked by earnings

The Physics program focuses on the study of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature. It encompasses various specializations, including Atomic/Molecular Physics, Nuclear Physics, and Optics/Optical Sciences, making it suitable…

Institutions
10
offering CIP 40.08
States offered
9
with a program page
Degrees / yr
111
IPEDS completions 2026
Median grad earnings
1 year after graduation
With earnings data
0
College Scorecard
Median net price
$22,827
IPEDS 2026
Avg graduation rate
67%
IPEDS 2026
State pay · Physicists
$157,580
BLS OEWS 2024

10 institutions offering Physics in Iowa

Graduate earnings are not yet reported for these institutions; ordered by completions.

#InstitutionGrad earnings (1 yr)CompletionsGrad rateNet priceMedian debt
1University of Iowa
Iowa City Public
3175%
2Grinnell College
Grinnell Private not-for-profit
2488%$14,470
3Iowa State University
Ames Public
1975%
4Coe College
Cedar Rapids Private not-for-profit
1366%$18,153
5Drake University
Des Moines Private not-for-profit
774%$28,855
6Luther College
Decorah Private not-for-profit
571%$22,827
7University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls Public
568%
8Des Moines Area Community College
Ankeny Public
339%
9Dordt University
Sioux Center Private not-for-profit
370%$24,569
10Eastern Iowa Community College District
Davenport Public
145%

Career outlook

What this program leads to: Physicists (SOC 19-2012).

Projected growth (2024–2034)
+4.0%
About as fast as average
Openings / yr (US)
~1,700
BLS Employment Projections
US median wage
$166,290
typically Doctoral or professional degree

Top skills

ScienceReading ComprehensionMathematicsCritical ThinkingSpeakingActive Listening

What Physicists earn in Iowa

Jobs in Iowa
120
BLS OEWS May 2024
State average pay
$157,580
median $120,810
Best-paying metro
$176,470
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA

Related careers

Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
$115,040 avg · 160 jobs
Physicists
$157,580 avg · 120 jobs

Common questions

Answers for students comparing Physics programs in Iowa.

How much do Physicists earn in Iowa?+

The average annual wage for Physicists in Iowa is $157,580 (median $120,810), across about 120 jobs. Source: BLS OEWS, May 2024.

What is the focus of the Physics program?+

The Physics program focuses on the study of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature. It encompasses various specializations, including Atomic/Molecular Physics, Nuclear Physics, and Optics/Optical Sciences, making it suitable…

What skills will I develop in this program?+

You will develop science, reading comprehension, mathematics, critical thinking, and related professional skills.

What is the job outlook for Physicists?+

The national job outlook is about +4.0% growth with around 1,700 annual openings (BLS Employment Projections 2024–2034).

What is the typical education requirement?+

A Doctoral or professional degree is the typical entry-level education for this field (BLS).

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