Careers
General Information
Briefly defined, physics is the science that tries to understand the laws of nature and the relationship between energy and matter. However, it might be more appropriate to define physics as a way of thinking rather than as a profession. The field of physics trains students to take a logical, problem-solving approach in whatever situations they might find themselves in. Physics students explore concepts and methods of science that can be applied in many different professional areas and research topics. Just check where Physics PhDs are being hired at American Institute of Physics.
For more information contact T. Rowe Price Career and Innovation Center.
Career Possibilities
- * Physicist
- * Astronomer
- Test Engineer
- * Science Journalist
- * Professor / Teacher / Educator
- * Nuclear Physicist
- Environmental Scientist
- * Geophysicist
- Energy Industry / Oil Exploration
- * Atmospheric Scientist
- Technical Consultant
- * Hydrologist
- * Patent Agent
- *Computer Science
* May require further education or certification
Secondary School Physics Teaching
Colorado Statistics
- 2013 Annual median salary for Physicists is $86,500; employment is expected to grow 13% by 2020.
- 2013 Annual median salary for Atmospheric Scientists is $92,500; employment is expected to grow 15% by 2020.
- 2013 Annual median salary for Hydrologists is $89,100; employment is expected to grow 10% by 2020.
- 2013 Annual median salary for Geoscientists is $100,300; employment is expected to grow 40% by 2020.