A solid grounding in the liberal arts, which includes good communication skills, both written and oral, is an asset sought by most employers. Graduates with a major in physics find employment in the various areas of physics and other physical sciences; in technological and health industries; in financial services; and in computer science, library science, education, communication, law, and medicine. In some of these areas advanced study may be necessary.
Many students who earn a bachelor’s degree in physics continue their studies towards a graduate degree in physics or a related field of natural science or engineering. Students who have demonstrated their abilities with a good record in an undergraduate physics program are favorably considered for admission to professional schools.
Career and job resources for physics degree holders include:
![Paulina Nelson](/sites/naturalsciences1.uoregon.edu/files/styles/custom_xl/public/2024-02/paulina-nelson.jpg?itok=FqIzUiwt)
Prepare for Graduate School
“My experience as a part of the UO physics department has taught me many skills and was a fulfilling educational experience. Even with the complications caused by the COVID-19 pandemic the community my peers and I were able to develop to support one another in our course work and in our social lives was strong. I was fortunate to participate in research in the department that I was passionate about and gave me many skills from practical technician and research skills to how to manage setbacks and uncertainty. I am grateful for my experience in the University of Oregon physics department that prepared me for graduate school in renewable energy systems.”
—Paulina Nelson, BS in physics, '22
![Zachary Cross](/sites/naturalsciences1.uoregon.edu/files/styles/portrait/public/2024-01/zachary-cross.jpg?h=fd1b6817&itok=BxhrNFHs)
Develop Career Skills
“My time in the UO physics department was transformative. The hands-on classes and cutting-edge experiments not only deepened my understanding of physics but also equipped me with invaluable problem-solving skills I use in my career today. As an engineer in the semiconductor industry, I constantly draw on the critical thinking and analytical skills I learned in my years in the department.”
—Zachary Cross, physics major, '21
Why Study Physics?
Read about examples of career paths and actual alumni jobs.