Today, let’s take a look at some Top 10 Marketable Physics Careers in 2023. A career path in physics opens up solid and abundant job opportunities in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) landscape.
According to OSU , “Physics graduates earn more right out of college than any other science major. Also, physics has one of the lowest unemployment rates, if not the lowest, of any major company. Why is it? We don’t know why, but we think it has something to do with the breadth of knowledge physics majors have.
If there is a reason to study physics, that should be motivation enough.
We will jump right into marketable careers in physics. In the meantime, the table of contents is below.
What is Physics?
Physics is the study of how various forms of matter and energy interact. With a degree in physics, students explore and understand the fundamentals of the universe, with a good range of career options after college.
Additionally, they also study forces such as gravity, electricity, and magnetism to find out why everything from particles to planets move the way they do. Without the work of physicists, we wouldn’t have x-rays, lasers, light bulbs, microwaves, solar panels, televisions, aeroplanes or computers.
Are physicists in demand?
Before answering the question, we would like to point out that employers highly respect physics degrees. It also offers many career opportunities. Indeed, physicists develop mathematical reasoning and critical thinking skills. As well as the ability to detect trends and patterns and communicate complex ideas.
Now let’s get to the question. Overall employment of physicists and astronomers is expected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.
This implies that physicists are in high demand due to their vast abilities.
What area of physics can I specialize in?
Physics is often described as the most fundamental of sciences. Interestingly, its principles can be applied in multiple ways.
You can become a physicist by studying one of the different fields of physics. Here are a few you can choose from:
- Atomic, molecular and optical physics: The study of the interaction of atoms, molecules and light
- Geophysics: The study of the physical processes and properties of the earth
- Cryogenics: The study of the behaviour of materials at very low temperatures
- Fluid mechanics: The study of how forces affect liquids, gases, and plasmas
- Biophysics: The study of biological systems and phenomena using physical techniques
- Nuclear Physics: The study of the structure and behaviour of an atom’s nucleus
How much does a physicist earn?
The salary of people who major in physics can vary depending on the level of education and the nature of the job.
For example, typical starting salaries for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in physics range from around $28,000 for those working as research assistants and lab technicians at colleges and universities to around $65,000 for those with found STEM-related positions in the private sector.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for American physicists is $131,080. Likewise, the average hourly rate is $XNUMX
What industries employ physics graduates?
Many students wonder what careers to pursue with their physics degree after graduation. The truth is, you can do a lot.
In fact, many industries employ young physics graduates because of their analytical and problem-solving skills.
For example, according to the AIP report, the percentage of physics bachelor’s degree holders entering the workforce instead of going to graduate school has steadily increased each year since 2010.
Hence, these industries employ this marketable career personnel.
- Education
- Manufacturing
- Aerospace industry
- Finance
- when an identity is compromised
- Long-term care
- Energy
- Telecommunications
- Computer science
A Guide to the Career Path in the Physics Major
Obtain a bachelor’s degree
The first step to starting a career in physics is to get a bachelor’s degree. This is the basis of an entry-level career. A bachelor’s degree typically takes four years to complete and provides a solid and broad foundation of information and training.
Earn a master’s degree
The Master stage generally lasts a year and a half, the last semester of which is devoted to the Master’s thesis.
Gain work experience
Work experience is a prerequisite for some high-level jobs and an advanced doctorate.
Pursue a PhD
A doctorate in physics opens up better career opportunities for you. As you will see below, most marketable careers in physics require a PhD.
Best Physics Schools
US News states these are the best physics schools for graduate and undergraduate programs. And they are duly accredited.
They are:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
- Stanford University.
- California Institute of Technology.
- Harvard University.
- Princeton University.
- University of California, Berkeley.
- Cornell University.
- The University of Chicago.
Marketable Careers in Physics
There are many careers in physics that are marketable. This section has listed the top 10.
#1. nuclear physicist
A nuclear physicist generally researches and develops safer/more efficient ways of producing nuclear energy.
This is one of the highest-paying careers in physics.
The professional role in this physics career may include conducting laboratory research, evaluating safety procedures at a nuclear power plant, designing medical equipment, and performing weapons inspections for the military.
Academic requirements
- This position requires a Ph.D.
Median salary
- The median salary for this marketable physics career is $111,567 per year.
#2. Astronomer
Astronomers are professionals who use satellites, and optical and space telescopes to study stars, planets and galaxies. They develop and explore theories about star formation and the evolution of planets.
They mainly work in government research centres, although some spend a lot of time in observatories.
Academic requirements
- This requires a Masters or PhD.
Median salary
- This marketable physics career has an average salary of $122,270.
#3. Materials Scientist
This physics career studies the structure and properties of natural and synthetic materials and finds new ways to improve or adapt them for different uses.
A typical materials scientist can design better prostheses, develop new paints, or use ultrasound to uncover hidden flaws in train tracks. Additionally, these scientists may work for universities, oil and gas companies, or computer manufacturers.
Academic requirements
It also requires a doctorate or master’s degree. Bachelor’s degree holders can work as an assistant until they have a lot of experience.
Median salary
- Expect to have an average starting salary of $100,430.
#4. Meteorologist
Meteorology is a branch of atmospheric science that includes the chemistry and physics of the atmosphere, focusing on weather forecasting.
This career in physics allows you to analyze atmospheric conditions and prepare accurate weather forecasts. This role can be played in the broadcasting, agriculture, aviation and aerospace industries.
Some meteorologists focus on finding the causes of hurricanes or tornadoes or developing computer models of climate change.
Academic requirements
A bachelor’s degree in physics is sufficient for some positions. But, those who focus on research will need a master’s or doctoral degree.
Median salary
- The average salary is $97,160.
#5. Data/Computer Scientist
Data scientists are another of our top marketable careers in physics.
Data scientists use their advanced quantitative abilities to collect, synthesize, and analyze large sets of data. They might also develop new data collection tools or processes. These data are used for business forecasts.
Computer scientists use computers to model and simulate the physical world / scientific problems. This marketable career in physics studies phenomena such as fluid flow, air turbulence, or heat transfer. And these help energy companies, biomedical companies or aircraft manufacturers to develop better processes and products.
Academic requirements
- A graduate degree in physics can help you get started in this field.
Median salary
- The median salary is $96,009. The Computer Scientist has a salary of $10,000.
#6. Laser Engineer
These professionals design, operate and maintain laser equipment. This requires a solid understanding of physics.
Laser engineers are a specialized type of optical engineer. These physics careers develop laser cutting systems for manufacturing companies, produce sophisticated equipment for surgical procedures, or work on navigation systems for the military.
Opportunities are also available in the telecommunications and construction industries.
Academic requirements
- Masters and PhD in Physics
Salary
- Average salary: $94.65.
#7. optical engineer
This marketable physics career focuses on the control and manipulation of light.
These professionals apply their knowledge of the properties of light to the design and creation of telescopes, cameras, scanners and fibre optic communication systems.
Most of them manufacture new products while others innovate on existing products.
Academic requirements
- You will need a master’s degree to enter this field.
Median salary
- The median salary for this marketable physics career is $89,702.
#8. Technical Writer
Technical writers document technical procedures and products. They use writing and communication skills as well as a good understanding of scientific phenomena.
Technical writers are the bridge between the people who create the technology and the people who use it.
Academic requirements
A degree in physics can be a good foundation for this career. Again, you need writing and communication skills.
Median salary
- The average salary is $76,860.
#9. Accelerator Operator
Accelerator Operation is a career in physics that controls massive particle accelerators which are an essential part of many scientific research experiments.
The role of this marketable career in physics involves monitoring, adjusting, and repairing equipment that helps scientists study the behaviour of subatomic particles.
Academic requirements
A strong physics bachelor’s or associate’s degree can get you the job, but you should expect to undergo long hours of on-the-job training.
Salary
The average salary is $70,812.
#10. High school physics teacher
It can be a very rewarding career in physics. You will essentially make the laws of nature understandable to young people.
According to Trade Schools, a survey found that more than three-quarters of those who completed a bachelor’s degree in physics and went on to teach high school were satisfied with their jobs.
Academic requirements
A bachelor’s degree in physics can start this career in physics. However, you must be licensed to teach in a public school. Still, some states have special certification processes for people with bachelor’s degrees, so you may be able to start teaching right away.
Salary
- The average salary is $65,930.
Major Entry-Level Physics Jobs
These are some of the most marketable careers in physics for those who have majored in physics and only have a bachelor’s degree.
- Research assistant
- Laboratory assistant
- IT consultant
- test engineer
- Site engineer
- optical engineer
Careers in theoretical physics?
These jobs are directly related to your degree in physics. These included.
- Academic researcher
- Acoustic consultant
- The Astronomer;
- Clinical Scientist, Medical Physics
- The geophysicist;
- Higher education teacher
- Metallurgist
- The meteorologist;
- Nanotechnologue
- Radiation protection practitioner
- Research scientist (physical sciences)
- Secondary school teacher
- Sound engineer
- Technical author
Marketable Physics Career FAQs
What are the professions of Physics?
Typical careers in physics include:
a. Careers in geophysics and meteorology
b. Physics careers in technology
c. Careers in Re Energy Physics
. Engineering careers
e. Physics careers in health care
f. Physics careers in space and astronomy
g. Scientific research careers
What Jobs Can Physics Degree Holders Get?
Bachelor’s and associate’s degree holders get the following physics jobs.
Research assistant
Laboratory assistant
IT consultant
Test engineer
Site engineer
Optical engineer
Conclusion
The article concludes that there are various interesting career paths in physics and they are all highly marketable.
These should motivate you to pursue a career in physics as they are very rewarding financially.
We have taken it upon ourselves to list the best physics colleges you can attend for the best education. Good luck!
RELATED POSTS:
