Albert Einstein was of the opinion that physics is an attempt to conceptually grasp reality as something that is considered to be independent of its being observed. In simple words, physics is all about understanding how the universe behaves. The word "Physics" literally translates to "knowledge from nature". It falls under the category of natural science and its main objective is to study matter, its motion and behaviour through space and time, and the related entities of energy and force. This gives you a glimpse of what this particular discipline is about. Great physicists who played a role in identifying the natural laws and theories that supported the modern scientific understanding of the world include Albert Einstein, Galileo Galilee, Erwin Schrodinger, Sir Isaac Newton, and Max Planck. Those choosing to study physics could be among the next generation of revolutionary thinkers in this field. Physics has made a huge difference and contribution to the field of science and technology. Classical Physics deals with various concepts like the speed of light, sound, electricity, heat, and magnetism. However, modern physics is more advanced and deals with higher speed, massive objects as well as tiny elements like protons, neutrons, and electrons.
Study Levels
The different study levels that are offered in this sub-discipline are:
B.Sc Physics (Hons)
B.Sc Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
B.Sc Mathematics and Physics
B.Sc Electronics and Instrumentation Engineering
B.Sc Engineering Physics
M.Sc in Physics
M.Sc in Applied Physics
Master in Climate Physics
M.Sc in Physics and Astronomy
M.Sc in Physics and Materials Science
M.Sc in Mechanics and Physics
Master in Particle Physics and Astrophysical Sciences
MPhil in Physics
M.Sc in Experimental Physics
M.Sc in Theoretical Physics
Master of Science in Physics of Data
MPhil in Physics - Scientific Computation Concentration
M.Sc in Physics - Physics Education
M.Sc in Engineering - Physics, and Technology
Ph.D. in Physics
Master in Physics and Technology of Advanced Materials
Specialisations
Physics, like most sciences, is a vast discipline. Therefore, you will find that there are a variety of specifications to further explore within this subject.
The various specialisations that can be found are:
Students can choose to specialize in areas like:
Electricity and Magnetism
Space and Time
Thermodynamics
Nuclear Physics
Relativity
Geophysics
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Aeronautical Engineering
Mathematical Physics
Medical/Health Physics
Quantum Physics
Optics and Acoustics
Mathematics
Cosmology
Fluid Physics
Fibre Optical Physics
Biophysics
Plasma Physics
Employability
After completing a Physics degree graduates usually develop a set of skills are namely, highly advanced numeracy, computer expertise, familiarity with current scientific software, specialised knowledge of physics topics, ability to grasp and analyse complex data sets. Besides these, they also possess advanced reasoning skills, the ability to construct logical arguments, general research skills, practical experimentation skills, a pragmatic and analytical approach to problem-solving, ability to pay close attention to detail, to communicate complex ideas, knowledge of technical language and self-management, including planning and meeting deadlines. These skills are what most potential employers look for, thus increasing their employability. There is an open market for career opportunities in the field of physics and this is one of the subjects that is needed in almost every industry.
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- The various career choices include:
Astronomer
Aeronautical Engineer
Clinical Scientist
Geophysicist
University Lecturer/ Professor
Meteorologist
Research Scientist
Sound Engineer
Accelerator Operator
Applications Engineer
Data Analyst
Design Engineer
IT Consultant
Lab Technician
Laser Engineer
Optical Engineer
Research Associate
Software Developer
Systems Analyst
Technical Specialist
Web Developer
^
- The various career choices include:
Astronomer
Aeronautical Engineer
Clinical Scientist
Geophysicist
University Lecturer/ Professor
Meteorologist
Research Scientist
Sound Engineer
Accelerator Operator
Applications Engineer
Data Analyst
Design Engineer
IT Consultant
Lab Technician
Laser Engineer
Optical Engineer
Research Associate
Software Developer
Systems Analyst
Technical Specialist
Web Developer