While the first image that comes to mind when we hear “careers in physics” is someone working at CERN, there are many other professional settings where we can encounter a physics major, some more expected than others. Science, technology, business, and even journalism all involve elements of physics, as the degree teaches the foundations of the world.
We spoke with Orlin Stoychev, Professor of Physics at AUBG, who uncovered what a degree in physics entails and what career paths may be suitable for graduates.
What do you learn in a physics degree? / Skills that travel well
Physics students develop a unique combination of skills that are highly valued across industries, well beyond the technical field. Through a rigorous curriculum, they become excellent analysts and problem-solvers, relying on their strong mathematical and computational training and thinking. They gain experience working with complex systems and data, and apply precision, persistence, and intellectual curiosity to every challenge.
These transferable skills explain why physics graduates consistently succeed both in graduate school and in the job market.
Is a major in physics worth it?
The demand for science-trained professionals continues to grow. As Professor Stoychev notes, “There is a steady trend in the last decade towards increasing demand for highly qualified workforce with training in science and technology.” Moreover, physics graduates consistently rank among the top three majors in terms of salary and can find meaningful careers across a wide range of fields.
“High energy physicists deal with not big but huge data,” said Professor Orlin Stoychev. At facilities like CERN, physicists work “with computations at the very front end of technology,” he added.
Beyond particle physics, physicists develop complex tools, such as chaotic dynamics, self-organized criticality, and advanced statistical modeling. “These models can be applied to areas outside physics such as biology, economics, social science, engineering,” making it “not wonder that physicists are sought for and can easily find jobs in areas where big data and statistical modelling are important – finance, artificial intelligence, etc.”
Careers with a physics major
“Students graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Physics are well-prepared for a graduate study in physics, but also in other STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields,” said Professor Stoychev.
Other students choose to enter the workforce directly. Of them, “more than 50% enter the STEM private sector, about 10% become high-school teachers, and the same number take jobs in government and national laboratories,” added Professor Stoychev.
Physics is not good just as a standalone degree. Many AUBG students take advantage of the liberal arts model by pursuing a double major. Some of the more obvious combinations include Physics with Mathematics, Computer Science, or Information Systems. “These would give our graduates strong competitive edge,” said Professor Stoychev.
At the same time, interdisciplinary combinations are also highly relevant: Economics, Business Administration, Journalism and Mass Communications, and even Political Science are all good pairings, especially today.
Research and science careers
A Physics major offers students the opportunity to explore how the natural world works and contribute to scientific advancement. Graduates may become physicists, astrophysicists, nuclear or medical physicists, materials scientists, or climate and atmospheric scientists, often working in research institutions, laboratories, or universities.
Many of these careers involve designing experiments, analyzing complex data, and developing theoretical models, which can be both very exciting and useful. These paths are especially well suited for students interested in discovery, innovation, and long-term scientific impact.
Compatible skills and majors/minors: mathematics, computer science, chemistry, sustainability studies, data science
Engineering and technical careers
Physics provides a strong foundation for engineering and applied technical roles. Physics graduates often work as aerospace, mechanical, electrical, or materials engineers, applying physical principles to design systems, improve processes, and develop new technologies. These roles are found in many industries, such as manufacturing, transportation, energy, optics, and advanced materials.
Compatible skills and majors/minors: mathematics, computer science, business administration, engineering
Computing, data, and technology careers
Modern physics and computation are deeply intertwined. That means Physics majors are well prepared for careers in data and technology. Graduates frequently progress into roles such as data scientist, software developer, quantitative analyst, or computer scientist. These careers rely heavily on the statistical and problem-solving skills developed through physics training.
Today, physics graduates are particularly valued in data-intensive fields such as artificial intelligence, finance, and scientific computing.
Compatible skills and majors/minors: mathematics, computer science, business administration, data science, artificial intelligence, software engineering
Education and communication careers
Physics graduates are also very important in the fields of education and science communication. Whether it’s teaching at the high school or university level, or working as science journalists and technical writers, Physics graduates with a knack for communication and science can build interesting careers. These roles focus on translating complex scientific ideas into accessible and engaging content for diverse audiences. They’re the ones shaping public understanding of science and technology. This path is well suited for students who are good mentors, storytellers, and can engage the public.
Compatible skills and majors/minors: journalism and mass communication, creative writing, education science
Business and policy careers
The analytical training gained through a Physics major is highly transferable to the business and policy fields. Physics graduates often work as business analysts, project managers, natural sciences managers, or energy and policy analysts, where they evaluate systems, assess risks, and support strategic decision-making.
Compatible skills and majors/minors: business administration, economics, public policy, sustainability studies, management
Specialized or applied physics careers
Some Physics majors choose highly specialized careers, such as accelerator operators, nuclear power reactor operators, or forensic firearms examiners. Such careers are typically based in national laboratories, energy facilities, or specialized government and industrial settings. They appeal to students who are deeply interested in physics and want to see practical outcomes of their work.
Compatible skills and majors/minors: mathematics, computer science, chemistry, nuclear engineering, forensic science
A Physics degree doesn’t launch you into a single career; rather, it gives you a way of thinking that’s useful in practically any field, even in your daily life. At AUBG, the Physics major combines strong scientific training with the freedom to explore other disciplines, opening paths well beyond the lab. If you want a degree that keeps your options open and challenges you intellectually, take a closer look at the Physics major at AUBG and apply today.
