Physics Discipline
- Chloe Harmon
- Sep 1
- 3 min read
Physics is the study of the world and universe and how they behave. This science focuses on matter and energy and their interactions through space and time. As a Physics major, you’ll develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are highly sought after by various employers. Studying physics is worthwhile because it provides a fundamental understanding of the universe, develops highly valued skills like analytical and problem-solving, and opens diverse career paths in fields such as engineering, medicine, finance, data science, and beyond. A physics degree trains individuals to think logically, handle complex data, and apply their knowledge to innovate and solve real-world problems across many industries.
Specific Physics Majors
Astrophysics: Focuses on the physical nature of celestial objects like stars and planets.
Biophysics: Studies the application of physics principles and methods to understand biological systems.
Chemical Physics: Explores the physics of chemical systems and their properties.
Computational Physics: Utilizes computational and numerical methods to solve complex physics problems.
Geophysics: Applies physics to Earth science, including fields like atmospheric and physical oceanography.
Nuclear Physics: Concentrates on the study of the atomic nucleus and its properties.
Quantum Physics: Investigates the fundamental nature of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic level.
Medical Physics: Involves the application of physics concepts and techniques to healthcare, such as radiation therapy or medical imaging.
Materials Science: Deals with the discovery, characterization, and application of materials from a physics perspective.
Undergraduate Sample Schedule for a Physics Major
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Best Colleges for a Physics Major
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Stanford University
California Institute of Technology
Harvard University
Princeton University
Classes to take in high school to prepare for a physics major
To prepare for a physics major, you should prioritize advanced math and science courses, such as AP Calculus and AP Physics C. You should also take Chemistry, as well as communication-focused courses like English and Speech, and consider extracurriculars like robotics to gain practical experience.
Popular Career Paths
Physicist -> A physicist is a scientist who studies matter, energy, space, and time to understand the fundamental laws of the universe, from the tiniest particles to the largest galaxies.
Engineering -> Many physics graduates enter engineering fields, including mechanical, electrical, biomedical, and laser engineering.
Research -> Opportunities exist in academic research, government labs, and industrial settings in areas like materials science or particle physics.
Medical Physicist -> Apply physics principles to medicine, focusing on diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, and patient care.
Astronomer/Astrophysicist -> Research space and the universe, from planetary systems to cosmic phenomena.
Aerospace Engineer -> Work in the development of aircraft, spacecraft, and related technologies.
Data Analyst/Quantitative Analyst -> Analyze complex datasets and apply mathematical models, skills honed in physics.
Teacher/Professor -> Educate and inspire students at the secondary school or university level.
Materials Scientist -> Research and develop new materials with specific physical properties for various applications.
Schooling you need to complete to be successful in the physics field
To be successful in the physics field, you typically need at least a bachelor's degree, but a doctoral degree is required for the highest-level roles in academia and research. The necessary amount of schooling depends on your career goals. A four-year Bachelor of Science (BS) in Physics can lead to a successful career, often by applying physics knowledge in other sectors. This path is suitable if you prefer work in a more applied, rather than theoretical, setting. A master's degree in physics expands your career options beyond a bachelor's, leading to higher-level positions and better earning potential. For those who want to be physicists, a doctorate is the standard. It is almost always required for careers in academic research and is often necessary for leadership positions in national laboratories and advanced industry research.
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