Physics

<h2 id="section---IsPhysicsForMe">Is Physics for Me?</h2> <h3 id="section---CareerOverview">Career Overview</h3> <p>Physicists use math to understand and explain how the world works, interpreting the phenomena of the universe in <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/directory/category/Physical_Science/Physics/Theoretical_and_Mathematical_Physics.html">theoretical and mathematical</a> terms. They are usually employed as physics researchers or teachers, helping others understand the mechanics of the world. </p> <h3 id="section---AreasOfSpecialization">Areas of Specialization</h3> <p>As an aspiring scientist, you may specialize in applied or <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Theoretical_Physics_Degree_Programs_Frequently_Asked_Questions.html">theoretical physics</a>, biophysics or <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Online_Quantum_Physics_Degree_Program_and_Courses.html">quantum physics</a> and mechanics. Additional areas of concentration include astrophysics and <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/directory/category/Physical_Science/Physics/Nuclear_Physics.html">nuclear physics</a>. </p> <h3 id="section---EmploymentAndSalaryInformation">Employment and Salary Information</h3> <p>The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projected an average increase of 10% in employment for physicists nationwide between 2012 and 2022. This is a highly competitive field, and research opportunities may be dependent upon federal funds. While it may take candidates with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in the field a while to obtain a permanent position, employment of college and university teachers in general was expected to grow by 19% nationwide, or faster than average, through 2022. As of May 2013, the median annual salary for a physicist was $110,110. In the same period, postsecondary <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Physics_Teacher_Career_and_Salary_FAQs.html">physics teachers</a> earned a median annual salary of $80,590 (<i>www.bls.gov</i>). </p> <h2 id="section---HowCanIWorkInPhysics">How Can I Work in Physics?</h2> <h3 id="section---UndergraduatePrograms">Undergraduate Programs</h3> <p>An undergraduate major in physics can help you acquire the scientific knowledge and skills you need to pursue a variety of <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/What_Are_Some_Popular_Physics_Professions.html">professions</a>, depending on your level of expertise. For example, as a qualified graduate with a <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Bachelors_Degrees_in_Physics_Program_FAQs.html">bachelor's degree in physics</a>, you might obtain a position as a physics lab technician or become an elementary or <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/How_Do_I_Become_a_High_School_Physics_Teacher.html">high school teacher</a>. If you're interested in the latter, you should be aware in advance that, although the requirements vary from state to state, they often include obtaining a teaching certification or license. </p> <h3 id="section---GraduatePrograms">Graduate Programs</h3> <p>Earning a <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Masters_Degree_in_Physics_Online_Program_FAQs.html">master's degree in physics</a> can help you qualify for a position in research and scientific development, either in the private or public sector. A <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Online_PhD_in_Physics_Program_FAQs.html">Ph.D. in physics</a> might also provide you with the credentials you need to work as a research <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Physicist_Career_Summary_Occupational_Outlook_and_Educational_Requirements.html">physicist</a> or college professor.</p>