Why Study Physics?

by: American Physical Society Sites

Want to Know How and Why? Learn Physics

Physics is crucial to understanding the world around us, the world inside us, and the world beyond us. It is the most basic and fundamental science.

Physics challenges our imaginations with concepts like relativity and string theory, and it leads to great discoveries, like computers and lasers, that lead to technologies which change our lives—from healing joints, to curing cancer, to developing sustainable energy solutions.  Check real physicist stories in the box to the right.

Like Science? It Began with Physics

Physics encompasses the study of the universe from the largest galaxies to the smallest subatomic particles.

Moreover, it’s the basis of many other sciences, including chemistry, oceanography, seismology, and astronomy (and can be applied to biology or medical science). All are easily accessible with a bachelor’s degree in physics.

   High School Physics Students

   Undergraduate Physics Students

Want Skills? Physicists Learn Them

Physicists are problem solvers. Their analytical skills make physicists versatile and adaptable so they work in interesting places.

You can find physicists in industrial and government labs, on college campuses, in the astronaut corps, and consulting on TV shows. In addition, many physics grads work at newspapers and magazines, in government, and even on Wall Street—places where their ability to think analytically is a great asset.

Want a Job? People Hire Physicists

Physics brings a broad perspective to any problem. Because they learn how to consider any problem they are not bound by context. This inventive thinking makes physicists desirable in any field. A bachelor’s degree in physics is a great foundation for careers in:

• Journalism
• Law
• Finance
• Medicine
• Engineering
• Computer Science
• Astronomy
• Biology

Read Real Physicist Profiles

Curing Cancer
Albin Gonzalez

Healing Joints
Marta McNeese

Sustainable Energy
Kenny Jensen

Policy Analysis
Alison Binkowski 

Like Money?  Physics Beats Other Sciences

Even when the job market is slow, physicists get job offers—well paying jobs.  Employers know that a physicist brings additional skills with expertise and pay accordingly.    That's why physics graduates can expect career salaries similar to those of computer science and engineering majors.

   Physics Career Statistical Data