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What Can I Do With a Degree in Physics?


Last updated December 1, 2021

By Camiell Foulger

If you are worried a degree in physics narrows your career options to a handful of choices, don’t worry because the scope of possibility is more extensive than you think!

Rest assured, a degree in physics can open the door to a wide-range of opportunities. With the additional leverage in the job market our liberal arts education provides, our physics majors graduate with a broad and diverse range of career prospects. And while most graduates go directly into the workforce, many also pursue advanced degrees.

A degree in physics enhances skills in data analysis, problem-solving, research, and mathematics. Those who pursue a major in physics challenge big ideas and test complex concepts. Many subfields exist within the field, such as biophysics, cosmology, optics, engineering physics, and more.

Although some fields of study require advanced degrees, students at Furman can take physics courses that align with their career interests, such as quantum mechanics, optics, astrophysics, atomic and nuclear physics, or thermodynamics.

Some people assume all physics majors go on to earn advance degrees and become professors. And while some recipients of a bachelor’s in physics do become professors, they also enter career paths in national laboratories, the private sector, and government agencies.

As a physics major, you could find a career in academia, manufacturing, engineering, medicine, aerospace, research, renewable energy, or nanotechnology.

If you still aren’t sure about committing to a degree in physics, you have time to explore all of our majors at Furman. And just because you may decide on another major, you can always dabble in several different departments as you complete the coursework in our liberal arts program.

Reach out to our administrative staff if you have additional questions about our program. Be sure to also check out the American Physical Society’s informative presentation about careers in physics.