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Careers in Physics
A Bachelor’s degree in Physics provides a unique and powerful foundation for a wide range of careers. Physicists are trained to think critically and analytically, equipping them with a versatile skill set highly valued in many professional fields.
A Physics degree at MSU Denver open doors to a surprisingly diverse array of careers.
Roughly half of our graduates pursue graduate studies (in physics, astronomy, or engineering), and half directly enter the workforce.
Whatever you choose, we can help you get there.
Graduate Studies
Roughly 30% of Physics bachelors attend graduate school in Physics or Astronomy. The potential areas of concentration are truly very diverse, and include:
- Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Cosmology
- Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences
- Biophysics
- Chemical Physics
- Engineering Physics
- Geophysics
- Medical Physics
- Optics
- Particle Physics and Nuclear Physics
- Solid-State Physics
- Quantum Physics and Quantum Computing
Roughly 20% of Physics bachelors go on to graduate school in other disciplines, including Engineering, Law School, and Medical School.
Careers
About half of Physics bachelors enter the private sector, with most finding employment in the following industries:
- Engineering
- Many physics graduates find success in various engineering disciplines. Their strong grasp of fundamental principles makes them excellent candidates for roles in research and development, where innovation is key. Common engineering disciplines include:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
- Optical Engineering
- Many physics graduates find success in various engineering disciplines. Their strong grasp of fundamental principles makes them excellent candidates for roles in research and development, where innovation is key. Common engineering disciplines include:
- Computer Hardware/Software
- The problem-solving and programming skills honed in a physics program are directly transferable to computer and information systems. Many graduates find work as:
- Software Developer
- Systems Analysts
- Computational Physicist
- IT Consultant
- Web Developer
- The problem-solving and programming skills honed in a physics program are directly transferable to computer and information systems. Many graduates find work as:
- Data Science and Finance
- The analytical and computational skills of a physics major are highly sought after in data science and quantitative finance. Graduates can work as:
- Data Analysts
- Machine-Learning Engineers
- Business Analyst
- Patent Attorney
- Project Manager
- The analytical and computational skills of a physics major are highly sought after in data science and quantitative finance. Graduates can work as:
- Medicine and Healthcare
- Physics is a foundational science for many medical technologies. Graduates can find careers in:
- Medical Imaging (MRI, CT scans, ultrasound, etc.)
- Nuclear Medicine
- Radiation Therapy
- Physics is a foundational science for many medical technologies. Graduates can find careers in:
- High School Science Teacher
Internships and External Research Opportunities
Internships and extra-curricular research can help you get accepted into graduate school or land your first industrial job.
Internships are available for Physics majors. Visit the Classroom to Career Hub to see what companies are participating and the application process.
In addition to potential research opportunities within our Physics Department, there are a multitude of physics and astronomy paid summer undergraduate research opportunities across the country. For a comprehensive list, visit these NSF sites:
Summer REU Sites for Physics
Summer REU Sites for Astronomy
Have more career questions?
Connect with our Department Chair
Our department chair would love to meet with you to discuss potential careers and to give advice on a career path. Please don’t hesitate to stop by, set up an appointment, or simply send out an email.
Campus Location:
Plaza Building, Room 262
Mailing Address:
Campus Box 69
PO Box 173362
Denver, CO 80217-3362