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University Degrees - Physics
As a subject area, few can beat the study of physics for its diversity at the undergraduate level. With both applied and theoretical programs available at top universities, physics offers an excellent scientific grounding for students interested in one of the more challenging university degrees.
Often regarded as a subject for study at a deeply theoretical level, physics represents an extremely diverse academic field that offers opportunities for students both interested in understanding natural phenomenon and having a very practical and hands-on undergraduate degree. Specialisms in astronomy, cosmology, thermodynamics or applied physics at the undergraduate degree level represent some of the most common areas students at university embark on in their higher study seeking to explore some of the most intricate yet fundamental aspects of our world. And as such, offers plenty of opportunity to study abroad.
What is physics?
There are broadly two types of physics that dominate the subject area – pure and applied, though the modern study of physics offers many subdivisions of these two categories, a number of which are inextricably linked. Essentially, physics is the branch of science that examines and offers a logical framework for us to understand the world around us, focused on matter, energy, space and time. A “who’s who” of some of the most famous figures in the field goes some way in indicating its extraordinary scope and importance as an area of study: Galileo Galilei’s first astronomical theories and observations; Sir Isaac Newton’s theories of motion and gravity; Albert Einstein and his theory of special relativity; Marie and Pierre Curie and their work on X-rays; and Ernest Rutherford’s discoveries leading to the establishment of nuclear physics.
Is physics for me?
With increasing concerns over the environment and the development of such areas as sustainable energy and renewable resources, physics offers an excellent opportunity for those students interested in learning about the fundamentals of a problem or a physical phenomenon. There is no industry, energy, communications system or medical treatment that does not depend on the application of physical principals and for those fascinated and excited by such issues, physics provides almost the perfect learning challenge.
It’s fair to say that a physics undergraduate degree is not for everyone. Commonly regarded as one of the most demanding of all degree programs, prospective students tend to be interested in their specific area of study, in science in more general terms and are very confident with their mathematical and quantitative skills. Students that are excited by problem solving, that are naturally curious and imaginative make excellent physics undergraduates. Students that tend to choose physics over the other sciences or mathematics are also interested in the practical applications that result from theoretical discoveries.
What programs are available?
Many top universities around the world offer an undergraduate degree in physics, showing its high regard and encouraging study abroad. The content will differ widely from university to university and country to country. Such degrees will cover a broad range of topics, often with an emphasis on modern physical principals and enable a student to enjoy the full breadth of the subject. Applied physics degrees are also very popular as they offer a core of fundamental physics and mathematics and allow the development of the necessary skills for practical problem solving in a range of industries.
Other universities will offer highly specialized undergraduate degrees. The University of Strathclyde, for example, was the first institution in Europe to offer an undergraduate degree in laser physics and optoelectronics for those interested in developing their knowledge of lasers. Further specialisms available at other universities include astronomy, astrophysics, biophysics, materials sciences, radiation, thermodynamics and wave motion. Depending on your particular interest you will almost certainly find a university physics department offering the exact degree that meets your requirements, especially if you’re keen to study abroad.
Because even the most theoretical of programs offers very practical applications in different fields, physics degrees are often available in conjunction with industrial or research placements. In some cases these can be as short as one semester but can also be a year away from your studies.
What are the career prospects for a Physics graduate?
Graduates in physics tend to be extremely well qualified for further research and a scientific career, depending on the level to which they have specialized in their undergraduate degree. However, it’s also important to recognize that the basic elements of any physics program will teach you to be a good scientist, developing essential skills such as designing experiments, making accurate measurements and analyzing results.
If you choose to seek a career directly related to your physics degree it’s likely that you will never be called a physicist! Graduates work in a diverse range of industries and companies as engineers, software developers, computer scientists, medical researchers and telecommunications specialists – only those that stay firmly in the realm of research tend to be regarded as physicists first and foremost.
Physics is also regarded very highly as a generalist qualification leading to a range of careers. Common occupations for physics graduates include research, management, sales, higher education, industry of all kinds, medical technology and the civil service. Outside of the scientific world, like many other undergraduate degrees, physics will open the door to a range of careers; skills such as problem solving, information handling, clear communication, computer and IT skills and critical reasoning are as applicable to a career in banking and financial analysis as they are in any laboratory.
