The successful physics student must possess strong skills in mathematics, analytical thinking and writing, and problem solving. The student should be imaginative and welcome challenges. For greatest success, the student should function well both individually and as part of a group.
Career Possibilities:
The study of physics provides excellent training in quantitative and analytic approaches to solving problems, as well as experience with computers and laboratory equipment. Physics graduates are highly sought for graduate and professional programs in engineering, computer science, law, economics, medicine, neuroscience, business and teaching, in addition to physics. Physics graduates are also highly valued in the workplace, particularly in the high-tech industries, but also in other areas where analytic abilities and out-of-the-box thinking are assets.
The emphasis on modeling and problem-solving skills as an intrinsic part of a physics education means that graduates of this major can and do pursue many different careers. In addition to continuing on to graduate schools in physics and other professional schools like law, medicine and business, opportunities of our recent graduates include:
- Science teacher
- Banking and finance
- Military officer
- Accelerator operator
- Research technician
- Computer engineer
- Software development
- Aerospace industry
- Actuary
- Medical physics
Graduate study in physics includes additional course work and an original research project, culminating in the PhD thesis or dissertation. PhDs in physics are qualified to teach at colleges and universities, as well as to lead independent research at universities, government facilities or in an industrial setting.