DDTea said:Have you considered Cal Tech? They have some pretty exciting stuff going on there.
The top UC's with good Physics departments are UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Santa Barbara, UC San Diego, and UC Irvine.
These UC's have a strong emphasis on research and have renowned faculty members who have made significant contributions to the field of Physics. They also have well-equipped facilities and offer a diverse range of courses in Physics.
The job prospects for graduates from these UC's are excellent. Many top companies and research institutions actively recruit graduates from these schools due to their strong Physics programs and the skills and knowledge they acquire during their studies.
While all of these UC's have strong overall Physics departments, some specialize in specific areas. UC Berkeley is known for its research in theoretical physics, while UCLA has a strong focus on experimental physics. UC Santa Barbara is renowned for its program in condensed matter physics, and UC San Diego has a strong astrophysics program. UC Irvine is known for its research in quantum mechanics and quantum computing.
Admission to these UC's is highly competitive, especially for their Physics programs. Applicants are expected to have a strong academic background, particularly in math and science courses. They also take into account research experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. It is important to have a well-rounded application to increase your chances of admission.