What are the specializations in physics?

[shinobi20]

Main Question or Discussion Point

What are the specializations in physics that I can choose in graduate school? Aside from Theoretical Physics, Astrophysics, Particle Physics, Medical Physics... What else?

 

[Giant]

As I understand it, all the branches of physics have a theoretical aspect.
Have you heard about computational physics? Although my knowledge is very limited
This is a good place to start:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Branches_of_physics#Summary

 

[elkement]

Experimental condensed matter / solid-state physics - such as semiconductor physics, or optics / laser physics. I have been working with manufacturing superconducting thin films via laser ablation.

As I understand it, all the branches of physics have a theoretical aspect.

On principle you should know your relevant theory as an experimentalist but picking an applied field you will not really "do" much theory. I spent the years of of my PhD in the lab, tinkering with devices, repairing stuff, working with the guys in the workshop to have my apparatuses built etc.

The computer-related part of my work was not "computational" but related to writing programs that controls sensors and the like.

 

[shinobi20]

What I want to pursue is a balance mixture of theory and experimentation, which I think particle physics suits that well.

 

[ZapperZ]

Please look at the various Divisions under the APS. This loosely corresponds to the various areas of physics that one can specialize in.

http://www.aps.org/membership/units/index.cfm

Zz.

 

[jbrussell93]

Don't forget the most fascinating subfield of all... geophysics! :D