According to OSU, “Graduates with physics degrees earn more right out of college than any other science major. Also, physics has one of the lowest, if not the lowest, unemployment rates of any major. Why is this? We don’t know why, but we suspect that it has something to do with a breadth of knowledge physics majors have” If there is any reason to study physics, then that should be motivation enough. We will get right into the marketable careers in physics. Meanwhile, the table of content is below.
What is Physics?
Physics is the study of the ways in which various forms of matter and energy interact. With a physics degree, students explore and understand the fundamental building blocks of the universe, with a good range of career options after university. In addition, they also study forces like gravity, electricity, and magnetism to learn why everything from particles to planets move the way they do. Without the work of physicists, we wouldn’t have x-rays, lasers, light bulbs, microwaves, solar panels, televisions, airplanes, or computers. You’ll need to know this: 10 Resources & Best Websites for Physics.
Are physicists in demand?
Before we answer the question, we will like to point out that Physics degrees are highly respected by employers. It also offers ample career opportunities. This is because physicists develop mathematical reasoning and critical thinking skills. As well as the ability to detect trends and patterns and communicate complex ideas. Now to the question. The overall employment of physicists and astronomers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This entails that physicists are in high demand because of their vast abilities.
Which field in physics can I major in?
Physics is often described as the most fundamental of the sciences. Interestingly, its principles can be applied in a myriad of ways. You can become a physicist by studying any one of a number of different fields of physics. Here are just a few you could choose from:
How much does a physicist earn?
The salary of people who have physics majors can vary based on the level of education and the nature of the job. For, example, the typical starting salaries for physics bachelor’s degree holders range from about $28,000 for those who work as research assistants and lab technicians in colleges and universities to about $65,000 for those who found STEM-related positions in the private sector. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary among U.S. physicists is $131,080. Similarly, the average hourly rate is $63
What are the Industries that Employ Physics Graduates?
Many students wonder what careers to pursue with their physics degree upon graduation. Truth is, you can do a lot. In fact, many industries employ young physics graduates because of their analytical and problem-solving skills. For instance, according to the AIP report, the percentage of physics bachelor’s degree holders who enter the workforce instead of going to grad school has steadily increased every year since 2010. Therefore, these industries employ these marketable career personnel.
A Guide to the Career Path in Physics Major
Best Physics Schools
According to US News, these are the best physics schools for graduate and undergraduate programs. And they are duly accredited. They are: This article will provide more in-depth information: 10 Best Physics Schools in the World | 2021
Marketable Careers in Physics
There are lots of careers in physics that are marketable. This section has listed the best 10.
#1. Nuclear physicist
A nuclear physicist typically researches and develops safer/more efficient ways to generate nuclear power. This is among the highest-paying careers in physics. The job role of this physics career may include conducting laboratory research, evaluating the safety procedures at a nuclear power plant, designing medical equipment, and performing weapons inspections for the military. Academic Requirement This position requires a doctoral degree. Median Salary The Median salary for this marketable physics career is $111,567 annually.
#2. Astronomer
Astronomers are professionals who use satellites, optical and space-based telescopes to study stars, planets, and galaxies. They basically develop and explore theories about how stars form and how planets evolve. They mostly work in government research centers, though some spend much of their time in observatories. Academic Requirements This requires masters or doctoral degree Median Salary This marketable physics career has an average salary of $122,270.
#3. Materials scientist
This physics career investigates the structure and properties of both natural and synthetic materials and finds new ways to improve or adapt them for different uses. A typical material scientist can design better prosthetic devices, develop new types of paints, or using ultrasound to uncover hidden defects in railway tracks. In addition, these scientists can work for universities, oil and gas companies, or computer manufacturers. Academic Requirements This also requires either a doctoral or master’s degree. Bachelors holders can work as an assistant until they have ample experience. Median Salary Expect to have a starting average salary of $100,430.
#4. Meteorologist
Meteorology is a branch of the atmospheric sciences that includes atmospheric chemistry and atmospheric physics, with a major focus on weather forecasting. With this careers in physics, you can analyze atmospheric conditions and prepare accurate weather forecasts. This job role can be taken in the broadcasting, agriculture, aviation, and aerospace industries. Some meteorologists focus on researching the causes of hurricanes or tornadoes or developing computer models of climate change. Academic Requirements A bachelor’s degree in physics is enough for some positions. But, those that focus on research will require a master’s or doctorate degree. Median Salary The average salary is $97,160.
#5. Data/ Computational scientist
Another of our top marketable careers in physics is data scientists. Data scientists use their advanced quantitative abilities to collect, synthesize, and analyze large sets of data. They might also develop new tools or processes for data collection. This data is used for business forecasts. Computational scientists use computers to model and simulate the physical world/scientific problems. This marketable career in physics investigates phenomena like fluid flow, air turbulence, or heat transfer. And these help energy companies, biomedical firms, or aircraft manufacturers to develop better processes and products. Academic Requirements A graduate degree in physics can get you started in this field. Median Salary Median salary is $96,009. Computational scientist has a salary of $90,000.
#6. Laser engineer
These professionals design, operate, and maintain laser equipment. This requires a solid understanding of physics. Laser engineers are a specialized type of optical engineer. These careers in physics develop laser cutting systems for manufacturing firms, produce sophisticated equipment for surgical procedures, or work on navigational systems for the military. Opportunities are also available in the telecommunications and construction industries. Academic Requirements Masters and doctorate in physics Salary Average salary: is $94,65.
#7. Optical engineer
This marketable physics career focuses on controlling and manipulating light. These professionals apply their knowledge of the properties of light to the design and creation of telescopes, cameras, scanners, and fiber optics communications systems. Most of them manufacture new products while others innovate on existing ones. Academic Requirements You’ll need a master’s degree to get into this field. Median Salary The Median salary for this marketable career in physics is $89,702.
#8. Technical writer
Technical writers document technical procedures and products. They make use of skills in writing and communication as well as a sound understanding of scientific phenomena. Technical writers are the bridge between the people who create the technology and the people who use it. Academic Requirements A degree in physics can be a good foundation for this career. Again, you need training in writing and communication. Median Salary Average salary is $76,860.
#9. Accelerator operator
Accelerator operation is a career in physics that controls massive particle accelerators that are an essential part of many scientific research experiments. The role of this marketable career in physics involves monitoring, adjusting, and repairing equipments that help scientists study the behavior of subatomic particles. Academic Requirements A bachelor’s or associate’s in solid physics can get you the job, but you should expect to undergo long hours of on-the-job training. Salary Average salary is $70,812.
#10. High school physics teacher
This can be a very rewarding career in physics. You’ll essentially make the laws of nature understandable to the young. According to tradeschools, one survey found that more than three-quarters of those who completed a bachelor’s degree in physics and went on to teach high school were satisfied with their jobs. Academic Requirement Bachelor degree in physics can start this career in physics. However, you have to be licensed to teach public school, but some states have special certification processes for people with bachelor’s degrees, so you may be able to start teaching immediately. Salary The Average salary is $65,930.
Some other highly marketable careers in physics include:
Entry-Level Physics Major Jobs
These are some of the most marketable careers in physics for those who majored in physics and have only a bachelor’s degree.
Careers in theoretical physics?
These jobs are directly related to your physics degree. These include. The typical careers in physics include:a. Geophysics and meteorology careersb. Physics careers in technologyc. Physics careers in Energyd. Careers in engineeringe. Physics careers in healthcaref. Physics careers in space and astronomyg. Research scientist careers Bachelors and associate degree holders get the following physics jobsResearch assistantLab assistantIT consultantTest engineerField engineerOptical engineer
Conclusion
From the article, we can conclude that there are various interesting career paths in physics, and they’re all highly marketable. These should motivate you to pursue a career in physics as they are highly rewarding financially. We have taken the initiative to list the best physics colleges you can attend for the best of education. Best of luck!
