What Can I Do With a Physics Degree?

A physics degree is a passport into a broad range of science, engineering, and technology careers. These options vary by degree level. Statistical data collected by the American Institute of Physics offers a detailed look at the physicist employment at all degree levels.

Many people think that the most common career for a physics major is a physics professor, but the statistics show a different story. In reality, about one out of six physics bachelor’s degree recipients in the United States earn a physics or astronomy PhD, and only about 30% of those that do work in academia. The others have fulfilling careers in the private sector, in government agencies or national laboratories, and in other sectors. —SPS National

American Institute of Physics: Trends & Statistics

What Is a Bachelor's Degree Worth?

Where Do Physics Bachelors Work?  

Physics Bachelors One Year Later

Physics PhDs Granted by Subfield

Starting Salaries in the Private Sector

Women Among Physics Faculty Members

For more information visit: SPS National & AIP