Physics
Physics is the study of the physical universe. In physics, students learn to solve theoretical and practical problems using fundamental principles and to effectively communicate those solutions. This study provides preparation for graduate studies in engineering and other physical sciences and professional schools, as well as preparation for positions in industry.
Contact the Department
Department of Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science
Georgetown College
400 East College Street
Georgetown, KY 40324
http://www.georgetowncollege.edu/mpc/
Career Ideas for Physics
| AREA | EMPLOYERS | STRATEGIES | |
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ASTRONOMY |
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Acquire excellent verbal and written communication skills. Get involved in a research project. Develop a specialty area of expertise and experience. | |
ACOUSTICAL PHYSICS |
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Supplement program with courses in psychology, physiology, communications, political science, and sociology. Obtain a graduate degree in physics for opportunities in industry. Maintain an interest in music, the arts and humanities. | |
ASTROPHYSICS |
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Obtain experience through part-time or voluntary position in a planetarium, observatory or science museum. Complete an internship with a research organization or related industry. Participate in research with scholars in the field. Contact the American Astronomical Society for more information. | |
BIOPHYSICS |
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Acquire information about state licensure required for various types of technicians working in medical settings. Gain experience as a laboratory assistant or hospital orderly. Volunteer at a hospital or clinic. | |
FLUID AND PLASMA PHYSICS |
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Obtain a graduate degree (master’s or doctorate) for opportunities in industry or research. | |
GEOPHYSICS |
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Specialize in geophysics or minor in geology. Develop good background in mathematics, chemistry, engineering, and physics. Maintain good physical condition. | |
HEALTH PHYSICS |
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Earn a Ph.D. and certification by the American Board of Health Physics (ABHP) for top university teaching, research and administrative positions. Complete a master’s degree and certification by the ABHP for professional health physicists’ positions. Specialize in health physics and obtain technician certification from the National Registry of Radiation Protection. Acquire knowledge of government standards and regulations. | |
MEDICAL PHYSICS |
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Gain experience working in a hospital. Develop a research specialty in a medical or health related area. | |
NUCLEAR PHYSICS |
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A master’s degree is preferred for positions in industry. Develop excellent laboratory skills. Acquire a strong mathematics and chemistry background. | |
OPTICAL PHYSICS |
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Obtain a master’s degree for positions in industry. Supplement program with courses in electricity, magnetism, quantum mechanics, and electronics. Get involved in an independent optics project during senior year. | |
SCIENCE EDUCATION |
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Gain experience working with young people through volunteering and tutoring. Work with after school programs and summer camps. Acquire appropriate state teacher certification for K-12 teaching opportunities. Visit schools and observe classrooms. Create a portfolio of science experiments and activities. Become skilled in the use of computers. Earn a graduate degree in information science. | |
TECHNICAL |
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Gain experience through internships or co-ops. Complete applicable certification or licensure through professional organizations. Gain knowledge about the field through informational interviews with professionals. Develop work habits that are systematic, precise, and patient. Develop a strong computer background. Gain experience using scientific instruments and equipment. Pursue a graduate degree in engineering. | |
SOLID STATE PHYSICS |
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Obtain experience working with electronics and computers. Request applicable job listings from the American Institute of Physics. | |
General Information
- A bachelor’s degree will qualify for positions as research assistants, high level technicians, or computer specialists, as well as nontechnical work in publishing or sales.
- An undergraduate degree also provides a solid background for pursuing advanced degrees in other employment areas such as law, business, accounting, or medicine.
- Be aware that expertise and experience in a specialty area are usually required for employment opportunities directly related to physics.
- A graduate degree and post-graduate experience will allow for more responsibility and advancement in the field of physics.
- An earned doctorate is required for college or university teaching, advanced research, and administrative positions.
- Some industries such as the manufacturers of electrical devices will train in the specialty of the firm.
- A bachelor’s degree and state teacher certification are required for K-12 teaching opportunities.
- Visit government laboratories or research centers. Talk with a physicist about his/her profession and career path.
- Join relevant professional associations. Attend their meetings and read their publications.
- Acquire excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Gain experience with tools, electronics, and machinery.
- Become familiar with government job application process for positions in federal, state, or local government.
Helpful Links
- Sloan Foundation Careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
- American Physical Society
- Careers Using Physics
- American Institute of Physics Careers for Physicists
- Physics Jobs Online
- Science Careers
- Careers in Science and Engineering
- PhDs.org
- The American Astronomical Society
- The Scientist’s Employment Network
- Science Technicians from the Occupational Outlook Handbook
- Physicists and Astronomers from the Occupational Outlook Handbook
- Teacher-Postsecondary from the Occupational Outlook Handbook
Prepared by the Career Planning staff of Career Services at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
(2005) UTK is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA /ADEA Employer
