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

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the job opportunities available for individuals with a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Physics. Participants highlight that various fields, including research and industry roles, are accessible, with starting salaries typically exceeding $15 per hour. The conversation also touches on the timeline for completing a BS degree, with the individual currently finishing Differential Equations and having completed a year of university-level physics courses. The participant expresses a preference against teaching due to perceived low respect and pay in that profession.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of undergraduate physics concepts, including kinematics and nuclear/particle physics.
  • Familiarity with Differential Equations and their applications in physics.
  • Knowledge of job market trends for physics graduates.
  • Awareness of various career paths available to physics majors outside of teaching.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research job opportunities for physics graduates in industry and research roles.
  • Explore salary expectations for entry-level positions in physics-related fields.
  • Investigate internships or part-time positions that can provide experience while completing a degree.
  • Learn about advanced degrees in physics and their impact on career prospects.
USEFUL FOR

Prospective physics majors, students nearing graduation in physics or mathematics, and individuals seeking career advice in the physics field.

Nikanoru
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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.
 
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