Your degree in Physics

Skills you’ll develop

While studying Physics, you are learning about the universe, from the smallest particles to the largest structures, and the properties that control the behaviour of matter. You will develop the skills of taking basic principles and applying them to new problems or novel situations to observe what will happen.

These skills may include:

• Application of theoretical concepts and scientific principles to unexplained or novel situations
• Observation and interpretation of relationships between factors
• Usage of computer programming to create complex models or solutions
• Application of logic, imagination, judgment, and abstract thinking to solve real-world problems
• Quantification of complex calculations and statistical analysis
• Communication of complex ideas through advanced technical writing
• Usage of a wide range of advanced instruments, machines, and lab equipment

Explore career possibilities

Career opportunities vary widely across a range of fields including space, computer and game design, medical data and technology, cancer treatment, laboratory research, project management, finance, science education and outreach, environmental assessment and monitoring, scientific equipment control, and others.

There are many career paths that can combine your academics, skills, and experience with your different interests. Read through the job titles below for ideas. Some career options may require further education or training.

Visit the National Occupational Classification website to research basic requirements and responsibilities of jobs in your field.

Make the most of your specialization

Your experiences will open doors to new opportunities and help clarify your values and interests.

• UBC Physics Society
  Attend student events, seek mentorship, and meet other UBC Physics students.
• UBC Physics Olympics
  Volunteer to support local high school teams competing in a series of physics events.
• UBC Science Co-op
  Gain work experience in physics between study terms.
• Departmental research opportunities
  Reach out directly to faculty members to ask about potential research positions.
• Metro Vancouver Physics Circle
  Provide guidance to advanced high school students in physics through biweekly sessions.
• Saturday Morning Lectures
  Attend lectures at TRIUMF to learn about the frontiers of modern physics.
• CAP University Prize Exam
  Compete against other undergraduates in the national Physics competition and win prizes in Term 2.
• UBC Physics outreach initiatives
  Interact with elementary and high school students through workshops and sessions.
• UBC Department of Physics events
  Check out departmental events, including seminars, colloquia, and lectures.
• UBC Physics resources for students
  Attend workshops and browse resources in the Physics department.
• UBC Young Women for STEM
  Speak at different high schools to inspire young female students to pursue a career in Physics.

Build your network

Employers often hire people they know, so help them get to know you. You can build your network through clubs, classes, informational interviews, and more. There are so many ways to make connections and find mentors.

The professional associations below are also great resources for meeting people, learning about specific industries, and finding job and volunteer opportunities. Most have reduced membership rates for students and new grads.

• Aerospace Industries Association of Canada
• American Institute of Physics
• American Physical Society
• Canadian Association of Physicists 
• Canadian Organization of Medical Physicists
• Institute of Particle Physics 
• Institute of Physics
• International Organization of Chinese Physicists and Astronomers 
• LGBTQ+ Physicists
• National Society of Black Physicists
• National Society of Hispanic Physicists
• Ontario Association of Physics Teachers
• Society for Women in Science & Technology 
• Society of Physics Students
• Women in Physics Canada

Connect with alumni on LinkedIn

Find UBC Physics graduates on LinkedIn to learn about where they’re working, and their career and academic paths.

More information

From your Science degree, you’ll develop skills and experiences that can translate into many career paths. Check out other things you can do with your Science degree.