Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the job market for graduates with degrees in Applied Physics, including BS, MS, and PhD levels. Participants share their personal experiences and insights regarding employment opportunities, the relevance of their skills, and the nature of jobs available in the field.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- Some participants suggest that the job market for Applied Physics graduates may mirror the challenges faced by those with degrees in pure physics or mathematics, with many finding employment outside their field.
- One participant shares their experience of taking two years to secure a job not directly related to physics, highlighting that their friends with physics degrees also work outside the field.
- Another participant emphasizes the importance of specific skills acquired during their education, such as lab equipment operation and programming abilities, in determining job prospects.
- A participant with an MS in physics notes that their job title is engineer, indicating a shift away from traditional physics roles, despite having conducted applied research.
- One contributor with a PhD in Applied Physics recounts their experience in securing a job related to materials science, emphasizing the significance of hands-on experience and project management skills in their employment.
- Participants discuss the relevance of coursework and specialized skills, with some noting that a background in materials science and engineering classes may enhance employability.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a range of experiences regarding job acquisition, with some indicating difficulty in finding relevant employment while others highlight the importance of specific skills. No consensus is reached on the overall state of the job market for Applied Physics graduates.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include the anecdotal nature of the experiences shared, which may not represent broader trends. The discussion also reflects varying definitions of what constitutes being "in the field" of physics.