Physics

What is Physics?

Physics is the most fundamental natural science, It examines basic concepts such as energy, force, and spacetime, and all that derives from these, such as mass, charge, matter and its motion. More broadly, it is the general analysis of nature, conducted in order to understand how the world and universe behave.

Physicists want to really understand how the world works, in every detail and at the deepest level. Physicists study questions facing today’s science and technology and are at the forefront of solutions for instrumentation, measurement techniques, and model development in many areas.

Several recent national surveys have indicated that there is a shortage of physicists in almost all parts of Canada. This situation will become even more acute in the next decade, so physicists will continue to find good jobs.

What Can You Be With a Bachelor of Science in Physics?

Physics graduates are highly sought after employees. Here are some the careers you may want to consider pursuing with your major:

  • Laboratory Technician
  • Research Technician
  • Field Researcher
  • Production Assistant
  • Technical Writer
  • Operations Management
  • Photographer
  • Sales Representative for Technical Products
  • Educational Televsion Producer
  • Laser Technician
  • Instrument Technician

Search for Careers for more career possibilities.

With additional education/training…

  • Marine Geophysicist
  • Systems Analyst
  • Applications Programmer
  • Systems Support Representative
  • Space Technician
  • Flight Management Analyst
  • Photogrammeter
  • Meteorologist
  • Seismic Observer
  • Professor
  • Teacher
  • Physicist
  • Nuclear Physicist
  • Chemical Physicist
  • Electronics Physicist
  • Optics Physicist
  • Thermodynamics Physicist
  • Biophysicist
  • Medical Physicist

Where Can You Work?

Physics graduates can find employment in a wide range of areas, including

  • Astronomy
  • Meteorology
  • Marine Science
  • Biophysics
  • Geophysics
  • Product Development
  • Consulting
  • Sales and Marketing
  • Research & Development
  • Teaching
  • Computing
  • Education
  • Finance
  • Journalism
  • Health Sciences
  • Management and Administration
  • Industrial Science

What Skills Can You Develop?

A physics education emphasizes problem solving and abstract thinking. This training makes physics graduates very desirable employees. Additional skills include:

  • Adapting ideas
  • Seeing relationships between factors
  • Developing and writing research proposals
  • Reviewing relevant literature
  • Preparing technical reports
  • Synthesizing and summarizing data
  • Analyzing and evaluating data
  • Presenting data
  • Informing/explaining/instructing
  • Computer interfacing
  • Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and optical equipment
  • Image processing and electronics
  • Strong analytical and experimental skills
  • Mathematical modeling
  • Using mathematical formulas
  • Performing calculations
  • Clarifying problems and comparing factors
  • Solving quantitative problems
  • Theory development
  • Testing an idea/hypothesis
  • Designing research projects
  • Organizing ideas/material
  • Defining/developing/generating ideas
  • Experimenting with ideas/procedures

Professional Associations

Professional associations can be a great way to meet, learn from and network with professionals in your field of interest. Some associations offer student memberships, often at a reduced rate. Below is a sample of professional associations you can explore.

Contact the Department

UNB Department of Physics
Room P209, 8 Bailey Drive
Fredericton NBE3B 5A3

Contact Information
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