A Physics degree can open many career opportunities for you. With this degree, you can work in a range of industries, such as Aerospace and Defense, Education, Engineering, Manufacturing, Science and Telecommunications, Oil and Gas, and Meteorology and Climate Change.
If you are interested in joining this exciting field, then read this detailed article to learn about some popular Physics degrees being taught across the U.S.
What Is Physics?
The branch of science that deals with the properties and nature of energy and matter is called Physics. This discipline explores a range of topics such as the structure of atoms, magnetism, electricity, sound, mechanics, and radiation.
What Can You Do with a Physics Degree?
After graduating with a Physics degree, individuals can launch their careers as Academic Researchers, Physicists, Geophysicists, Higher Education Lecturers, Metallurgists, Nanotechnologists, and Secondary School Teachers.
Now let’s discuss the income and growth prospects for Physics graduates. The information given below has been taken from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Physicists
These individuals analyze and study how different forms of energy and matter interact. Their job duties include developing scientific models and theories to explain the attributes of the natural world, conducting and planning scientific studies and experiments to discover properties of energy and matter, and writing scientific papers for journals.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $122,850 | 9% | $131,080 | California | 1,950 |
| Kansas | $181,190 |
Postsecondary Teachers – Physics Teachers
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $89,590 | 7% | $101,110 | New York | 1,540 |
| Maryland | $132,050 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
High School Teachers
These instructors teach students the knowledge, skills, and academic concepts they require for college. After graduating with a Physics degree, individuals can teach at the high school level.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $61,660 | 4% | $65,930 | California | 109,840 |
| New York | $87,240 |
What to Expect from a Physics Degree?
The Associate of Science (A.S.) program in Physics prepares students who want to pursue this major at the Bachelor’s level. To complete this degree, students have to study a range of modules such as Physics with Calculus, General Chemistry, Analytical Geometry and Calculus, and Ordinary Differential Equations.
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Physics can usually be completed within four years, however, the length of the program is not standard. Students enrolled in this program have to study a range of modules such as Principles of Physics, Modern Physics, Waves and Optics, Experimental Physics, Electricity and Magnetism, and Introduction to Quantum Mechanics.
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Physics program offers advanced and rigorous training in core areas of Physics. Students who intend to pursue this degree are required to study several interesting courses such as Mathematical Physics, Electromagnetic Theory, Statistical Mechanics, Nanoscience, and Biophysics.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Physics trains students for a career in teaching or research. To obtain this degree, students have to complete a dissertation of high quality, complete the required coursework and have to clear a comprehensive final exam.
How to Choose a Physics Degree?
Before deciding which Physics degree to enroll in, individuals should consider several factors. They should check whether the program is accredited, whether the college has a high ranking, and whether the school offers professional development opportunities. They should also take into account other factors, such as the cost of the degree and the location of the school.
Physics Degree Requirements
Since each school and program has its own admissions requirements, so we can only provide some general guidelines. For program-specific information, you will have to visit the website of the respective program.
Generally, applicants are expected to send their admission application, statement of purpose, high school/Bachelor’s/Master’s transcripts, GRE scores (if required), and letters of recommendation to the admissions office.