In this video you will hear from a number of UCC Physics Graduates about their time at UCC and current careers. They talk about the many options available to a Physics graduate and how a degree in Physics really sets you up for a happy and fulfilling career.

Overview

Career opportunities in physics are as varied as the subject itself.  Meaning physics graduates can choose a career path based on what interests them. The great variety of skills that the physics graduate has is an important asset in industry where technology develops rapidly. Physics graduates are in turn sought after by employers as they can significantly improve the performance of an organisation.

This is because a physicist requires a logical and numerate mind, the ability to solve problems, communication skills (developed through report-writing and presentations), computing and practical skills, teamwork and flexibility (essential for lab work and projects) – all these abilities learned during an undergraduate course at UCC.

Options After Studying Physics

On completing a physics degree, the student usually has two main career options – a choice between industry or academic research. Today, there is a tendency towards furthering an education in physics with postgraduate studies regardless of whether a career in industry or research is pursued.

In addition to physics research and teaching, physicists work in such diverse areas as electronics, information technology, telecommunications, aerospace, electro-optics, electricity generation, medical physics, meteorology, geophysics, development of new materials and so on.