Prospective Physics Major - What kind of opportunities are out there?

[Nikanoru]

I'm about to finish up all the available physics/math classes at my local community college, and I've decided I want to major in physics. As far as what field, I'm not sure yet. But in the meantime, I was wondering what kind of job opportunities are out there for somebody with a BS in physics? And about what the average pay is like? Basically what it boils down to is that I want to get some sort of steady job in the physics field that pays me enough to stay afloat while I finish up my schooling. Anything over 15/hr would great, as right now I'm in a dead-end retail job, so anything would be an improvement.

Also, about how much longer do you think I'd need until I could get a BS degree? I know these are questions more for a counselor, but I just want to get a general idea of what to expect. As far as what classes I've taken, I've taken the equivalent of a year of state-university physics(from kinematics to nuclear/particle physics) and I'll be finishing up Differential Equations this semester.

*Edit - Basically I know everything in this book https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0495112453/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Thanks!

Oh, and I'd rather not teach. I know its something I'd be good at, but teachers honestly don't get the respect or pay they deserve. A lot of work for a small pay-out.

 

[fasterthanjoao]

Firstly you should read: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=240792, then free to come back with any questions.

Also here in the UK, teachers pay is actually very good (as compared to normal research physicist pay).