The study of physics underlies many pivotal discoveries of the 20th century- including laser, television, radio, computer technology and nuclear weapons. Physics students need to be excellent with numbers, scientific principles and keen interest in discoveries relating physical world.
A physics degree is a great starting point for a range of career in scientific research, business, finance, IT, and engineering sectors.
Studying physics develops your understanding of core physics and gives you a range of subject-specific skills in areas such as astronomy, computational and experimental physics, condensed matter, dynamics, electromagnetism and quantum mechanics.
You also develop transferable skills valued by a wide range of both technical and non-technical employers. These skills include:
problem solving - with a pragmatic and analytical approach
reasoning - constructing logical arguments and grasping complex problems
research and data analysis - undertaking research and applying analytical skills
numeracy - skills in using mathematics to find solutions to scientific problems, mathematical modelling and interpreting and presenting information graphically
practical skills - planning, executing and reporting experiments, using technical equipment and paying attention to detail
communication - conveying complex ideas and using technical language correctly, discussing ideas and taking on other viewpoints
teamworking - working together on group-based project work
time management and organisation - meeting project and research deadlines
information technology (IT) - including specialist software packages and some programming.
Jobs directly related to your degree include:
1. Academic researcher
2. Astronomer
3. Clinical Scientist
4. Geophysicist
5. Metallurgist
6. Meteorologist
7. Nanotechnologist
8. Sound Engineer
9. Technical Author
Jobs where your degree would be useful include:
1. Actuary
2. Applications Developer
3. Data Analyst
4. Nuclear Engineer
5. Prosthetist/ Orthotist
6. Software Engineer
7. Telecommunications Engineer
Most of the employers are open to applications from graduates with any degree so do not restrict your thinking to these listed areas.
Typical employers
Employers of physics graduates include academic institutions, schools and colleges, government research organisations, the Armed Forces and industries.
Industries employing physicists are varied and include:
1. Aerospace and defence
2. Education
3. Energy and renewable energy
4. Engineering
5. Health and Medicine
6. Instrumentation
7. Manufacturing
8. Meteorology and Climate Change
9. Oil and Gas
10. Nanotechnology
11. Science and Telecommunications
Physics graduates also move into careers outside of science. Popular areas include banking and finance, as well as the software, computing and consultancy industries, accountancy and law.
Work experience
Make the most of any opportunities to gain relevant work experience, such as an industry placement or year out in industry as part of your degree. Use this time to gain practical skills to complement your academic studies and to build a network of contacts.
Whichever career you're interested in, getting relevant experience will help boost you chances of getting a job. Work experience also helps you to decide whether you'd enjoy doing the job.
Connect with us to know more about your career interests and the right course in the right Institute, the environment of which will nurture you further.