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Degrees and Schools
Many colleges and universities provide bachelor's degree programs in physics. The programs provide a broad background in the natural sciences and mathematics. Graduate study in physics includes training methodology, theory and mathematics. Most physicists specialize in a subfield while attending graduate school.
Classes
Students typically study the following subjects:
- Optics
- Electromagnetism
- Atom physics
- Quantum mechanics
- Thermodynamics
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
Online Classes and Programs
Accredited colleges and universities offer online undergraduate and graduate degree programs in physics.
Employment Requirements
Most basic research positions, faculty positions, independent research in industry and managerial positions require a Ph.D degree in physics or a closely related subject. Although not required, additional experience and training in a postdoctoral research appointment is important in basic research in government and university laboratories.
Those who have a master's degree in physics typically don't qualify for research jobs but many of them are qualified for positions in applied research and development and manufacturing. Also, a master's degree and state certification typically qualifies individuals for teaching jobs at two year colleges and high schools.
Increasingly many master's degree programs are specifically preparing students to be involved in physics-related research and development that do not require a Ph.D. Students learn specific research skills that can be utilized in private industry positions.
Individuals that have a bachelor's degree in physics are typically qualified to work as research assistants and technicians in engineering related areas, software development and other fields. Increasingly some of them may qualify for applied research positions in private industry.
The major employers are the scientific research and development services industry, colleges and universities, government agencies, hospitals and private industry.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
The answers to the following questions can help students choose the appropriate school:
- Training - Does the program provide plenty of hands-on training? Does the program include an externship? Do students have a variety of externship choices?
- School's Reputation - Is the school recognized for its physics program?
- Job Placement - Are students provided job placement services? Do employers who hire physicists recruit students at the school?
- Curriculum - What type of electives are offered? Can students select an area of specialization?
- Financial Aid - What types of financial aid are available? Is the school eligible to provide federal financial aid?
- Accreditation - Is the school accredited by an agency which has been approved by the the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education?
Physicists Job Description
Physicists investigate topics such as motion and gravity, the structure and behavior of matter, the behavior of gases, the generation of energy and the interaction between matter and energy. Physicists identity basic forces and laws of nature. They solve problems in medicine, industry defense and other fields. Physics is a very broad science and many physicists specialize in a particular branch.
Some physicists study theoretical subjects and others use their knowledge of physics in practical areas such as developing advanced electronic, materials, laser beams, communications satellites, medical equipment and optical devices.
Shown below are some of their responsibilities:
- Design and perform experiments
- Design research equipment
- Analyze data using computers
- Describe observations and conclusions in mathematical terms
- Collaborate with other scientists in the design, development and testing of experimental, medical and industrial equipment, procedures and instrumentation
- Evaluate data from research performed to detect and measure physical phenomena
- Research the medical applications of physics
Resources
- American Institute of Physics
- American Physical Society
- The American Association of Physicists in Medicine
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