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 academic backgrounds, skills, and experience with your different interests. Read through the job titles below for ideas, but note that 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.

Acoustic physicist
Aerodynamicist
Architect
Avionics mechanic
Biophysicist
Climate scientist
Community science outreach educator
Computer engineer
Computer games designer
Data analyst
Engineer
Geophysicist
Health physicist
Hydrologist
Industrial radiographer
Laser technician
Materials scientist
Medical physicist
Medical radiation technologists

Meteorologist
Nanotechnology physicist
Network test engineer
Nuclear power reactor operators
Oceanographer
Particle technician
Physical chemist
Physicist
Radiation inspector
Remote sensing technician
Science museum curator
Scientific journalist
Scientific research manager
Seismologist
Sound engineer
Systems/Research analyst
Teacher/Professor
Technical writer

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.

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.