[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Key Takeaways[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check” marker-color=”secondary”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A physics degree teaches students to analyze the behavior of matter and energy across time and space, preparing them for roles in science, engineering, healthcare, and technology.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students can earn physics degrees at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral level, with specialization options like astrophysics, quantum mechanics, and biophysics.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Graduates may qualify for jobs as research scientists, mechanical engineers, or physics professors, with salaries ranging from $49,820 to $137,940 depending on role and education level.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-flex] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4″]Whether you plan to explore the nature of quarks or the properties of outer space, a physics degree will develop your knowledge of matter, motion, space, and time.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Physics degrees introduce students to matter’s properties, structures, movements, and behavior in time and space. A physics program integrates natural science with mathematical analysis, training students in the core principles of physics and theories about the nature of the universe.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Coursework introduces learners to historical thinkers like Plato, Galileo, and Isaac Newton, along with more modern physics pioneers such as Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Physics students develop an understanding of energy and matter as fundamental elements of the universe. Learners can explore branches of the discipline, such as nuclear and particle physics, astrophysics, and atomic physics. The following information includes descriptions of key physics fields.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”tertiary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Astronomy and Astrophysics”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Astronomy measures objects’ positions and motions, while astrophysics develops theories about how the universe functions. Astronomers and astrophysicists seek answers about how the universe began, developed, and continues to function.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Engineering Physics”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Engineering physics includes thermodynamics, computational physics, and fluid dynamics. This interdisciplinary field has applicability across engineering industries and research areas.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Biophysics”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This field explores biological organisms and mechanisms of all sizes. It covers mathematical analysis, physics, biology, and chemistry principles.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Geophysics and Meteorology”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Geophysics and meteorology apply physics to the Earth’s processes and properties. Geophysicists conduct experiments, create computational and theoretical models, and observe the Earth and related planetary processes, while meteorologists focus on the Earth’s atmosphere.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Nuclear Physics”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This discipline focuses on the protons and neutrons at the center of atomic material, applying physics principles to the study of nuclear matter. Nuclear physics seeks to understand matter by looking at nuclear reactions, changes, and structures.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Quantum Physics”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Quantum physics is the study of nature at atomic and subatomic levels. Quantum physicists observe particles, waves, and their properties to develop an understanding of how they function within the universe.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Medical Physics”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Often referred to as “biomedical physics” or “applied physics in medicine,” this course considers medical science through a physics lens. Medical physicists apply physics concepts and theories to clinical services, like cancer treatment and radiology. Medical physics also comprises researching and developing technologies to meet the needs of medical and healthcare industries.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Kinds of Physics Degrees Are There?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Physics majors complete coursework in core principles and practices of the discipline, usually covering a lot of hard science and STEM topics, but curricula can vary widely among programs. Along with their chosen subsets of physics, students can focus on theoretical or applied physics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Theoretical physics involves positing new models to explain the interactions between matter and energy, while applied physics tests models and theories against practical experiments, oftne leading to new technologies. Individuals should choose programs that match their interests and professional goals.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]— Associate Degree in Physics[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An associate degree in physics introduces students to fundamentals of the discipline, generally serving as a pathway to a bachelor’s degree in physics. Enrollees study mathematics, natural science, and chemistry through two years of coursework.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning an associate degree in physics often meets the general education requirements for a four-year degree, or graduates can pursue entry-level careers in healthcare or research. With an associate degree in physics, learners can work as laboratory assistants, nuclear technicians, and medical equipment maintenance providers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]— Bachelor’s Degree in Physics[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A bachelor’s degree in physics typically includes four years of coursework. Students begin by learning about core practices and principles of physics before continuing on to specialized classes. Degree-seekers explore nuclear particles, physical optics, and thermodynamics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a bachelor’s degree in physics, students can pursue roles as physics teachers, laboratory technicians, and applications engineers. A bachelor’s degree in physics can also serve as a pathway to graduate work in physics or a related field.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]What’s the Difference Between a Bachelor of Arts in Physics and a Bachelor of Science in Physics?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most schools offer bachelor of science (BS) degrees in physics, but some institutions also offer bachelor of arts (BA) degrees in physics. BA and BS programs in physics share many similarities, but BS degrees emphasize research and direct application of physics concepts and principles, while BAs have more generalized curricula.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a BS in physics is ideal for learners interested in pursuing careers in science-related industries or in attending grad school. A BA in physics integrates additional humanities and liberal arts coursework, making it best suited for learners who intend to pursue communications or managerial roles tangential to science.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a BS in physics, students have the knowledge and skills to work as software engineers, research scientists, and mechanical engineers. A BA in physics leads to positions in data analysis, education, communications, and organizational leadership.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]— Master’s Degree in Physics[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s degree in physics includes two years of lecture, laboratory, and research coursework. Core classes cover mechanics, electrodynamics, quantum technology, and mathematical physics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students can specialize within the physics discipline in areas like medical physics, astrophysics, and materials science. A master’s degree in physics typically requires an in-depth research project or internship. Some programs include a thesis option, which ideal for learners who want to continue on to earn doctoral degrees in physics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]— Doctoral Degree in Physics[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students typically complete doctoral degrees in physics in 5-6 years. The curriculum includes two years of coursework followed by a competency exam. Once learners successfully complete the exam, they conduct independent research projects and produce dissertations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctoral learners specialize in subsets of the field, like cosmology, quantum technology, or biophysics. Each enrollee’s emphasis informs their research and dissertation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a doctorate in physics, individuals can teach in postsecondary institutions or pursue roles like medical physics program specialist, natural science manager, and computer software engineering manager.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Accreditation for Physics Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most colleges and universities in the United States receive [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]regional or national accreditation[/hen-ui-link]. The regional form is preferred for STEM subjects, like physics. Accreditation attests to an institution’s educational quality, the scope of its programs, and its compliance with professional standards and policies. Students should always determine the accreditation status of a prospective school before enrolling.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Along with national and regional accreditation, individual programs and departments can receive programmatic accreditation. Several accrediting agencies work in the physics field, including [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.campep.org/”]The Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Education Programs[/hen-ui-link], which provides accreditation for medical physics degree programs, [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.abet.org/about-abet/”]and ABET[/hen-ui-link], which accredits applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology programs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can I Do With a Physics Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Physics majors can pursue [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/physics-degree/”]career options[/hen-ui-link] across economic sectors. The main industries for physics students include engineering, healthcare, and technology, but graduates can also pursue careers in education, meteorology, and business.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Physics degrees prepare learners to enter these fields by building foundational knowledge and skills in physics, chemistry, and related disciplines. Enrollees develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills applicable to many different roles.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”secondary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Engineering”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Physics programs integrate coursework in natural science, mathematics, and technology, which can lead to many different [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/careers/career-guide/engineering-careers/”]employment options in engineering[/hen-ui-link]. Bachelor’s degrees in physics offer learners basic knowledge and skills to work in engineering, while many master’s programs in physics have specializations directly applicable to aspects of engineering. Undergraduate physics majors can also pair their programs with engineering degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Astronomy and Space”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Individuals interested in working in astronomy and space-related industries need an understanding of how matter and energy function in the universe, which they can gain by pursuing physics majors. During a bachelor’s degree in physics, learners can explore astrophysics, cosmology, and astronomy. These specializations commonly appear in physics graduate programs, as well.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Public Research”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A physics degree teaches students about the scientific method, which is essential for individuals interested in working in public research. Students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while also learning to develop hypotheses, carry out experiments, and draw accurate conclusions based on their findings.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Learners develop essential math and statistics skills for quantitative data assessment during bachelor’s degrees in physics. Graduate degrees in physics hone research skills as learners postulate, explore, and conduct advanced research projects of their own.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Healthcare”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Physics degrees cover knowledge and skills applicable to many healthcare roles. For example, a physics program typically incorporates coursework in biology, chemistry, technology, and mathematics — all subjects that benefit individuals working in medicine and healthcare.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Within bachelor’s and master’s programs in physics, students can focus on biophysics and applied physics in medicine to prepare for healthcare careers.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Technology and Computer Science”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Physics degree-seekers complete coursework in mathematics and natural science, while is ideal for pursuing careers in technology and computer science. With a bachelor’s degree in physics, students build the qualitative and analytical skills needed to work in technology, especially in more research-oriented positions.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Combining a degree in physics with a major in computer science further enhances qualifications. A master’s degree in physics may also include a specialization in computational or applied physics, helping learners thrive as technology and computer science professionals.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Kind of Salary Can I Earn With a Physics Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Salaries for individuals with physics degrees vary by level, role, and experience. Many of the traditional fields for physics graduates offer lucrative opportunities for employment. By taking specific classes or specializing in topics like engineering, individuals can prepare for careers in high-paying fields with strong projected job growth rates.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Physics Career Outlooks[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”] [/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Salary (2020)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Minimum Degree Required[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Natural Sciences Managers[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/natural-sciences-managers.htm/”]$137,940[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/natural-sciences-managers.htm/”]5%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Physicists and Astronomers[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/physicists-and-astronomers.htm/”]$128,950[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/physicists-and-astronomers.htm/”]7%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Doctoral[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Computer and Information Research Scientists[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm/”]$126,830[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm/”]15%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Nuclear Engineers[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/nuclear-engineers.htm/”]$116,140[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/nuclear-engineers.htm/”]-13%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Atmospheric Scientists, Including Meteorologists[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/atmospheric-scientists-including-meteorologists.htm/”]$99,740[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/atmospheric-scientists-including-meteorologists.htm/”]6%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Biophysicists[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biochemists-and-biophysicists.htm/”]$94,270[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biochemists-and-biophysicists.htm/”]4%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Doctoral[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/biomedical-engineers.htm/”]$92,620[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/biomedical-engineers.htm/”]5%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Environmental Engineers[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/environmental-engineers.htm/”]$92,120[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/environmental-engineers.htm/”]3%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Physics College Professors[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm/”]$90,400[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm/”]9%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Doctoral[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Mechanical Engineers[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/mechanical-engineers.htm/”]$90,160[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/mechanical-engineers.htm/”]4%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Civil Engineers[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/civil-engineers.htm/”]$88,570[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/civil-engineers.htm/”]2%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Nuclear Technicians[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/nuclear-technicians.htm/”]$84,190[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/nuclear-technicians.htm/”]-19%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Associate[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Chemists and Material Scientists[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/chemists-and-materials-scientists.htm/”]$80,680[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/chemists-and-materials-scientists.htm/”]5%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Environmental Scientists and Specialists[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/environmental-scientists-and-specialists.htm/”]$73,230[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/environmental-scientists-and-specialists.htm/”]8%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]High School Teachers[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/high-school-teachers.htm/”]$62,870[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/high-school-teachers.htm/”]4%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=” “]Chemical Technicians[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2020)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/chemical-technicians.htm/”]$49,820[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/chemical-technicians.htm/”]3%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Minimum Degree Required”]Associate[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] Source: [hen-ui-link href=”http://www.bls.gov/”]Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-link] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Professional Organizations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.nsbp.org/” target=”_blank”]The National Society of Black Physicists[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] NSBP serves the Black physics community through mentorship programs and seminars, along with academic and professional support. Student members receive tutoring and networking resources, discounts on registration for NSBP events, and scholarship and internship programs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aps.org/programs/women/index.cfm” target=”_blank”]Committee on the Status of Women in Physics[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] CSWP is a body within the American Physical Society that encourages recruitment, retention, and career support for women physicists. CSWP offers a listserv, networking events, professional development seminars, and internship programs for women physicists at all levels.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aapt.org/” target=”_blank”]The American Association of Physics Teachers[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] Uniting physics teachers at all levels since 1930, AAPT fosters excellence in physical science education. Members receive access to AAPT’s journals, teaching materials, and discounts on AAPT events and products. Additional benefits include award programs, mentorship opportunities, and collaboration resources.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://fas.org/about-fas/” target=”_blank”]The Federation of American Scientists[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] FAS unites scientists, engineers, and other technically trained individuals to protect against security threats. This organization provides publications, advocacy, networking events, and career opportunities.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Can You Do With a Physics Degree?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This versatile degree can lead to careers in engineering, education, and computer technology. With a physics degree, individuals can also find work in healthcare, research, and business.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can a Physics Major Work as an Engineer?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes. Coursework in a physics degree provides the essential knowledge and skills needed to work in engineering. By combining engineering and physics degrees, students can further enhance their qualifications for engineering careers.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Classes Do You Need for a Physics Degree?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A physics degree incorporates classes in mathematics, chemistry, and other natural sciences, including courses in quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and principles of physics.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”] [hen-ui-expert-bio name=”Melissa Sartore” img-src=”https://res.cloudinary.com/highereducation/image/upload/f_auto,fl_lossy,q_auto:eco/v1618860719/TheBestSchools.org/hero-images/Experts/author-no-image.jpg” img-alt=”Melissa Sartore” layout=”horizontal” background=”white” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ slot=”contentRight”][hen-ui-link href=”/about/#writers/”]Melissa Sartore[/hen-ui-link] holds a Ph.D. in history from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her BA and MA in history are from Western Illinois University. A medievalist by training, she has published on outlawry in medieval England with additional publications on outlaws in popular culture and across geographic and historical boundaries.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm text-right”]Header Image Credit: SolStock | Getty Images[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Learn more, do more.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h5″]More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”slider” ids=”348,324,1027″][/hen-ui-article-row] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]