Physics is a 'hard' science: it is concerned with hard figures, precise and pure measurements. These are used to produce models and explain natural phenomena.
The Bachelor's programme in Physics frrom University of Groningen lasts three years. During your 1st year, you will study basic subjects such as linear algebra and relativity. You will also take practical courses. After this year, you can choose between four specializations:
Particle Physics
An introduction to the smallest constituents of materials. It deals with 'fundamental' questions such as Where is anti-matter in the Universe?
Energy and Environment
What is the physics behind the various processes used in the present and (possible) future forms of energy? How can we assure sufficient energy availability for future generations??
Life and Health?
How does a CT scan works and what are the effects of radiation? Life and Health deals with medical research and addresses biophysics as well as technique.
Nanophysics
Nanophysics is the study of materials on nano scales (one billionth of a metre). Some materials are known to have very special properties on these small scales.
Job prospects
Research, advising or teaching? there are many fields open to you! Physics consists of a broad Bachelor's programme, after which you can specialize with a Master's degree programme. You can then pursue a career in business or continue in the academic world.
Business
If you opt for the business sector, you could pursue a career in industry, helping to develop technological innovations. Automation companies also like to employ physicists. In the SME sector, consultancy and engineering firms are also increasingly looking for physicists.
Research
Once you have your Master's degree, you could find employment with research institutes such as TNO (Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research) and the KNMI (Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute). You can also carry out PhD research at a university.
Not the same as technology
Large organizations such as banks and insurance companies like to employ physicists because of their analytical skills. As a physicist you can formulate a model to describe, predict and solve an issue. This is useful in positions that involve conducting analyses. There was a period during which McKinsey, the global consultancy firm, preferred to recruit only physicists!
Job examples
- Technical innovator
- Researcher
- Analyst
- Consultant
- Product developer
