Career Opportunities For Physics Degree Graduates
Physicists are focused on researching the nature of the universe and everything in it
, from the infinitely vast reaches of space to the infinitesimally tiny scale of subatomic particles. These scientists observe and measure natural phenomena, interpret the results, use mathematics to develop theories to explain what they have observed, and then apply the knowledge they have gained to design new and innovative technologies.
Physicists may concentrate on expanding human understanding of theoretical topics like the nature of time and the origin of the universe. Or they may turn their attention to practical applications, like developing more powerful electronic machinery, optical devices, and medical equipment.
Physicists generally choose a specific subfield to specialize in, including atomic and molecular physics, elementary particle physics, optics, nuclear physics, condensed matter physics, plasma physics, acoustics, or space physics. And some physicists go even further and limit themselves to a subdivision of one of these subfields, such as the subdivisions of superconductivity, crystallography, and semiconductors within the subfield of condensed-matter physics.
However, it is important to remember that all physics involves the same fundamental principles. This means that there is a fair amount of overlap between the subfields, making it fairly easy for physicists to switch from one subfield to another as they pursue their careers.
Most physics jobs today are focused on basic research and development which are areas that usually require a doctoral degree with its rigorous training in theory, methodology and mathematics. In general, those who choose to pursue a career in physics will find that a Ph.D. degree in physics is the minimum requirement for basic research positions, as well as for conducting independent industrial research, acquiring a tenured faculty position in teaching or research, and advancing to managerial positions.
And additional experience and training through a postdoctoral research fellowship, although not strictly required, is usually recommended for physicists who want to hold permanent positions doing basic research at universities and government laboratories. These postdoctoral positions enable new PhD graduates to work closely with experienced physicists as they continue to learn about their specialties and develop their understanding of related research areas. In fact, some employers, particularly those in the information technology industry, strongly prefer to only hire individuals who have several years of postdoctoral experience.
Graduates who have a Master's degree in physics usually are not qualified to conduct basic research. Instead, they may find themselves working in a variety of jobs that require a solid physics background, such as positions in manufacturing or applied research and development. In fact, some master's degree programs are being developed that specifically teach students the research skills they will need for private-industry jobs. And someone who has a Master's degree in physics plus a State certification is usually able to get teaching jobs in high schools or at 2-year colleges.
Students who only have a bachelor's degree in physics cannot usually work in basic research or teaching at the college level. However, they often find work as technicians or research assistants in fields such as engineering, software development, and computer networking. And some may qualify for applied research jobs in private industry or take on computer science jobs, such as systems analysts or database administrators. And becoming a science teacher at the secondary school level is another option for those who have their bachelor's physics degree.
by: CCSTB
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