Welcome to the School of Physical Sciences

At the heart of the university, the School of Physical Sciences is committed to inclusive excellence in research and teaching—providing the resources and environment for all our community members to excel. Our priorities support the chancellor’s strategic goals as our vision focuses on student success, growing our faculty ranks and enabling new research directions.

Our world-renowned faculty contribute to our students’ success through mentorship. They share a deep passion for understanding our world and leaving it a better place for future generations. In this spirit, they combine research excellence, educational innovation and diverse perspectives to expand the frontiers of scientific discovery and to address complex challenges facing our global society.

Research excellence is key to educating the scientific leaders of tomorrow. We offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, top-ranking graduate programs, and we support California’s need for qualified science teachers through the California Teach Science and Math Initiative. Our reputation at UC San Diego has built over time through the success of our students and the faculty who help prepare them for engaging with the world.

Our success also depends on you—our friends, alumni, and industry partners who play critical roles in helping us fulfill our research and educational missions. We value your experience and insight, which strengthens our university, and we appreciate that your investment in the School of Physical Sciences is an investment in the future of all.

Christine Hrycyna
Dean of Physical Sciences
Chancellor's Associates Chair in Chemistry and Biochemistry