Physics at University of Miami

A bachelor's in physics from the University of Miami positions graduates below the state average, with estimated first-year earnings of $47,670 falling short of Florida's $50,960 median for physics programs. Comparable programs at the University of Central Florida and the University of South Florida report actual earnings of $55,826 and $46,094, respectively, suggesting Miami's physics graduates may land somewhere in that range. The estimated debt load of $23,120—derived from other programs at this highly selective private institution—produces a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off loans with about half their first year's salary.

The real question is whether Miami's premium (with its 19% admission rate and strong student body) translates into outcomes that justify choosing it over state universities where physics majors often earn more with less debt. Florida's flagship programs show physics can be a stronger launching pad elsewhere in the state, particularly at UCF where graduates earn nearly $8,000 more their first year. Physics is notoriously a degree where graduate school shapes long-term earnings trajectories, so if your child plans to continue their education, the undergraduate debt becomes even more significant.

Given the limited graduate cohort that triggered data suppression here, this appears to be a small program at a school better known for other fields. If your child is specifically drawn to Miami's physics faculty or research opportunities, investigate the program's graduate school placement record—that's where the real value will show up, not in these estimated first-year numbers.