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Physics is the most basic and fundamental science.
Physicists study a broad range of phenomena from large clusters of galaxies to the smallest subatomic particles.
Physicist work on improving both our detailed understanding of nature's most
fundamental laws, and on using basic principles to explaining the remarkable complexity observed in
natural phenomena.
The practice of physics is equally broad. Some physicists focus on
deep, abstract principles concerning the most basic laws of nature,
while others apply physics to make practical innovations in technology.
Physics provides the basis of many sciences including
chemistry, engineering, material science, oceanography, seismology, and astronomy.
Many professionals in these fields began with a bachelor's
degree in physics. Many of the innovations and discoveries that have changed
our lives, like computers and lasers have were made possible
by the work of physicists.
Physics continues to have a tremendous impact on new technologies and other innovations.
Of students who obtain a bachelors degree in physics, roughly half of go directly into employment after obtaining their bachelors degree. The other half go on to graduate school in physics, astronomy, engineering, medicine, law, education or other professions. Most jobs in basic research and development usually require a doctoral degree. Bachelors degree holders working for these employers often qualify as technicians or research assistants. There is a wealth of information about physics and physics careers on the web. Some particularly useful links can be found below.
Physicists are among the worlds best problem solvers and critical thinkers, skills that are essential for success in many fields. A physics education will prepare you for great jobs in a wide variety of careers.
Data science is an interdisciplinary field that uses standard scientific methods, algorithms, statistics, and data analysis. The defining quality of this field is the application of these tools to massive amounts of data in an increasingly powerful computing environment. Data science techniques run from the data management activities of extracting, cleansing, and organizing data, to quality control and assurance, and finally turning data into information through analysis, visualization, and modeling. Physicists are excellent data scientists, and many current research projects in physics rely heavily on data science.
Majoring or minoring in physics provides an excellent preparation for a career in law. This is particularly true for pre-law students interested in patent law. The Law School Admission Test (LSAT), is required for admission to many law schools, and Physics and Math majors rank #1 in average LSAT Scores.
Both patent agent's and patent attorney's have a license to represent clients before the Patent Office. Patent attorneys are also admitted to the practice of law. Students wishing to become patent agents should obtain a Bachelor's degree in a technology field which is recognized by the USTOP. For more information, consult the links below.
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), is a standardized examination for medical school admissions in the United States. Physics majors also excel in MCAT scores, finishing second behind Biomedical engineering. More information on physicists in medicine and on medical physics can be found below.
Standardized test for admission to optometry schools is the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT). For more information on a career in optometry you may consult.
Many physicists have gone on to work in finance or actuarial science. Browse the information links and job listings below.
The Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) is required for students applying to many MBA programs. According to the Profile of Graduate Admissions Test Candidates (2000-2005), published by the Graduate Management Admissions Council, of all majors, physicists top the list on GMAT scores. Below are some related links.
The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is a standardized test used for admissions to many graduate programs. Many graduate schools require the GRE as part of the admissions process The general GRE exam includes include sections on quantitative and verbal reasoning. Depending on the year, physics majors rank #1 in the Quantitative Reasoning portion of the GRE, or close to the top, and they excel in other parts of the GRE as well.
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