What Are Alternative Career Paths for Physics Masters Graduates?

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SUMMARY

Physics graduates face significant challenges in securing employment outside traditional sectors such as software development and the nuclear industry. Despite holding a first-class degree in physics, candidates often find that industries like oil and gas do not recognize their qualifications. Specific feedback from companies like TOTAL indicates that HR departments prioritize Earth scientists for geophysics positions, leaving physics graduates at a disadvantage despite relevant skills in areas like computational astrophysical fluid dynamics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of physics principles and applications
  • Familiarity with computational fluid dynamics
  • Knowledge of industry-specific hiring practices
  • Awareness of alternative career paths for STEM graduates
NEXT STEPS
  • Research alternative career paths for physics graduates in data analysis
  • Explore opportunities in academia for physics-related research positions
  • Investigate roles in environmental science that value physics expertise
  • Learn about transferable skills from physics to finance and consulting sectors
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for recent physics graduates, career advisors, and professionals exploring non-traditional career paths for STEM graduates.

sam_021
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Hi,
I graduated with a 1st class in "master of physics & bachelor of science", but I can't seem to find an interesting job that I am able to apply for.

I am not interested in software development or the nuclear and defense industry.
And it seems these are the only industries in the UK employing Physicists.

I have tried looking at oil & gas and engineering but it seems the HR of these companies don't acknowledge physicists :(

Any suggestions ?

EDIT: I called TOTAL recently and the HR said I can't apply for geophysics graduate positions, because they Earth scientists
 
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So I called another oil and gas company about resoiuvr engineer and they said I wouldn't qualify

It doesn't make sense because my modules are as applicable as engineering modules to these job
e.g. my masters project involved computational astrophysical fluid dynamics, which is pretty much analogous to regular fluid dynamics theory
 

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