Physics Major Useless? (Solved & Explained)

When it comes to science courses, a career path is not always obvious in the end.

As a result, the question of whether they are worth studying or not arises.

Is Physics Major useless? (Solved & Explained)

No Physics Major is not useless. A Physics Major can lead to a variety of in-demand, well-paying jobs ranging from Physicist to Teacher.

Physics is worth studying if you have an interest in exploring matter, energy, space, quantum physics and technology.

Physics graduates develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, setting them up for interesting and well-paying career possibilities.

Below are some popular career opportunities for those with a Physics qualification.

There are other career opportunities but thought would provide some popular jobs for interest and comparison

Popular Physics Career Opportunities

1. Physics & Astronomer ($119,730)

Physicists and astronomers study the interactions of matter and energy.

Theoretical physicists and astronomers may study the nature of time or the origin of the universe.

Some physicists design and perform experiments with sophisticated equipment such as particle accelerators, electron microscopes, and lasers.

Physicists and astronomers typically need a PhD for jobs in research and academia.

However, entry-level physicist jobs in the federal government typically require a bachelor’s degree in physics.

Duties

Physicists and astronomers typically do the following:

Develop scientific theories and models to explain the properties of the natural world, such as the force of gravity or the formation of subatomic particles
Plan and conduct scientific experiments and studies to test theories and discover properties of matter and energy
Write proposals and apply for research funding
Do mathematical calculations to analyze physical and astronomical data, such as for new material properties or the existence of planets in distant solar systems
Design new scientific equipment, such as telescopes and lasers
Develop computer software to analyze and model data
Write scientific papers for publication
Present research findings at conferences and lectures

Wages

The median annual wage for physicists was $129,850 in May 2020.

The lowest 10 per cent earned less than $67,450, and the highest 10 per cent earned more than $208,000.

Demand

Overall employment of physicists and astronomers is projected to grow 7 per cent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

Physicists are projected to have employment growth in the scientific research and development services, educational services, and healthcare and social assistance industries.

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2. Chemical Engineering ($108,540)

Chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and math to solve problems that involve the use of fuel, drugs, food, and many other products.

Chemical engineers must have a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or a related field.

Employers also value practical experience. Therefore, internships and cooperative engineering programs can be helpful.

Duties

Chemical engineers typically do the following:

Conduct research to develop new and improved manufacturing processes
Establish safety procedures for those working with dangerous chemicals
Develop processes for separating components of liquids and gases, or for generating electrical currents, by using controlled chemical processes
Design and plan the layout of equipment
Conduct tests and monitor the performance of processes throughout production
Troubleshoot problems with manufacturing processes
Evaluate equipment and processes to ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations
Estimate production costs for management

Wages

The median annual wage for chemical engineers was $108,540 in May 2020.

The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less.

The lowest 10 per cent earned less than $68,430, and the highest 10 per cent earned more than $168,960.

Demand

The employment of chemical engineers is projected to grow 4 per cent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Demand for chemical engineers’ services depends largely on demand for the products of various manufacturing industries.

The ability of these engineers to stay at the forefront of new emerging technologies will sustain employment growth.

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3. Atmospheric Scientists and Meteorologists ($99,740)

Atmospheric scientists and Meteorologist study the weather and climate and examine how those conditions affect human activity and the earth in general.

They may develop forecasts, collect and compile data from the field, assist in the development of new data collection instruments, or advise clients on risks or opportunities caused by weather events and climate change.

Duties

Atmospheric scientists typically do the following:

Measure temperature, atmospheric pressure, humidity, wind speed, dew point, and other properties of the atmosphere
Use computer models that analyze data about the atmosphere (also called meteorological data)
Write computer programs to support their modelling efforts
Conduct research to improve understanding of weather phenomena
Generate weather graphics for users
Report current weather conditions
Prepare long- and short-term weather forecasts by using computers, mathematical models, satellites, radar, and local station data
Plan, organize and participate in outreach programs aimed at educating the public about weather
Issue warnings to protect life and property when threatened by severe weather, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and flash floods

Wages

The median annual wage for atmospheric scientists, including meteorologists was $99,740 in May 2020.

The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less.

The lowest 10 per cent earned less than $52,350, and the highest 10 per cent earned more than $153,150.

Demand

Employment of atmospheric scientists, including meteorologists, is projected to grow 6 per cent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

New types of computer models have vastly improved the accuracy of forecasts and allowed atmospheric scientists to tailor forecasts to specific purposes.

This should maintain, and perhaps increase, the need for atmospheric scientists working in private industry as businesses demand more specialized weather information.

4. Biochemists and Biophysicists

Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and biological processes, such as cell development, growth, heredity, and disease.

Duties

Biochemists and biophysicists typically do the following:

Plan and conduct complex projects in basic and applied research
Manage laboratory teams and monitor the quality of their work
Isolate, analyze, and synthesize proteins, fats, DNA, and other molecules
Research the effects of substances such as drugs, hormones, and nutrients on tissues and biological processes
Review literature and the findings of other researchers and attend conferences
Prepare technical reports, research papers, and recommendations based on their research findings
Present research findings to scientists, engineers, and other colleagues
Secure funding and write a grant application

Wages

The median annual wage for biochemists and biophysicists was $94,270 in May 2020.

The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less.

The lowest 10 per cent earned less than $52,640, and the highest 10 per cent earned more than $169,860.

Demand

Employment of biochemists and biophysicists is projected to grow 4 per cent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Biochemists and biophysicists will continue to be needed to do basic research that increases scientific knowledge and to research and develop biological products and processes that improve people’s lives.

Techniques, tools, and applications of biochemistry and biophysics are expanding as technology and knowledge progress.

However, budgetary concerns may limit researchers’ access to funding for basic research.

5. Teacher ($80,790)

Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a variety of academic subjects beyond the high school level. They may also conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books.

Duties

Postsecondary teachers typically do the following:

Develop an instructional plan (known as a course outline or syllabus) for the course(s) they teach and ensure that it meets college and department standards
Plan lessons and assignments
Teach courses in their subject area
Assess students’ progress by grading assignments, papers, exams, and other work
Advise students about which courses to take and how to achieve their goals
Work with colleagues to develop or modify the curriculum for a degree or certificate program involving in-person, online, or hybrid delivery of course material
Stay informed about changes and innovations in their field
Serve on academic or administrative committees, as needed

Wages

The median annual wage for postsecondary teachers was $80,790 in May 2020. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less.

The lowest 10 per cent earned less than $40,960, and the highest 10 per cent earned more than $180,360.

Demand

Overall employment of postsecondary teachers is projected to grow 9 per cent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Both part-time and full-time postsecondary teachers are included in this projection.

Final Thoughts

Physics Major is not useless, in fact, it offers numerous intellectually interesting and well-paying career opportunities.

Studying Physics is worthwhile and will prepare you for a wide range of career opportunities

Important when deciding on what career you would like to pursue to align what studies are required.

Source

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov)