Future physicists will explore and identify basic principles of the structure and behavior of matter, the generation and transfer of energy, and the interaction of matter and energy.  They will do this through the theoretical study of the nature of time and origin of the universe (research) or through applied practice in development of such things as electronic and optical devices and medical equipment (development).
 
 

Is Physics the Major For You?
Are you interested in how things work?  Want to know why the sky is blue, sunsets are red, and ice floats?  Want to discover how the same idea can explain not just one, but numerous problems?  Interested in specifics rather than generalities?  Are you intrigued by lasers, superconductors, black holes, quantum mechanics, the big bang theory, relativity, the world around you and your place in it?  Well, Physics just may be for you!

Those with bachelor's degrees in physics are rarely qualified to fill positions in research or in teaching at the college level.  They are, however, usually qualified to work as technicians or research assistants in engineering-related areas, in software development and other scientific fields, or in setting up computer networks and sophisticated laboratory equipment.  Some may qualify for applied research jobs in private industry or nonresearch positions in the Federal Government.  Some become science teachers in secondary schools.  Astronomy bachelor's or master's degree holders often enter a field unrelated to astronomy, and they are qualified to work in planetariums running science shows, to assist astronomers doing research, and to operate space-based and ground-based telescopes and other astronomical instrumentation.  [BLS, OOH 2004-05]
 
 

       Non-faculty AND Faculty:
       Colleges and universities

     Non-faculty:
        Commercial or noncommercial research, development, testing laboratories (20%)
        Federal Government (20%) in:
           - Department of Defense
           - National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
           - Department of Commerce
           - Department of Health and Human Services
           - Department of Energy
        State governments
        Drug companies
        Electronic equipment manufacturers
 
 

With a Bachelor’s Degree:

With a Master’s Degree or Addition Certification/Training:

With a Ph.D.: