Physics can be found at the contemplation of deep fundamental questions as well as forming the basis of most present and future technology. Without an understanding of the basic Physics of a problem, it would go unsolved! Studying a graduate Physics course is a unique opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the greats from Newton, Faraday, Maxwell and Watt to Roger Penrose and Stephen Hawking. Not only will you learn physics to an advanced level, you will be working under some of the top physicists in their fields. The general skills of analysis and problem-solving that graduate Physics courses encourage and develop, enable Physics graduates to contribute effectively to most areas of an organisation's activities. Whether you are interested in a career in research or simply want to improve your knowledge in a specialised area, there is a graduate course in Physics to suit you.

What Will I Study?

Graduate Physics programs are many and varied. Some graduate courses will be more research-based than others. Similarly, Physics graduate courses vary in the selection of subjects they can be combined with. Physics is commonly studied in conjunction with subjects such as Mathematics, Engineering, Astronomy or Medicine. If you have a particular interest or focus for the graduate Physics course you wish to study then you should fully research the departments you are interested in to see if they can cater for your interests. Some Physics courses at graduate level are purely focussed on research and provide the grounding for development of training in research techniques and careers in academia. Don’t just select the university or college with the best reputation overall, examine closely the academic reputation and strength of research in specific Physics departments.

Some Specialist Research Areas:

• Astrophysics
• Condensed Matter
• Molecular and Nanoscale Physics
• Polymers and Complex Fluids
• Quantum Information
• Theoretical High Energy Physics
• Astronomy and Solar Terrestrial Physics
• Quantum Optoelectronics
• Quantum Control
• Magnetism and Superconductivity
• Nanophotonics
• Lasers and Functional Optical Materials

And many more!

What Do I Need?

To gain admission to a graduate Physics course, you will normally need to have a good first degree (upper second class or above with honours) in physics or a related subject such as electronics or engineering. However, you will need to check you’re your university or college as some may specify the subject of your first degree, and indeed, the content.

Where Can it Take Me?

As a Physics graduate, you are highly employable. Studying a graduate Physics program opens many doors for many different types of career. You will have opportunities all over the world to pursue your dream job. Studying a graduate course does not limit you to a career in academia, there are a wide range of industries that you can enter; food, medicine, finance, marketing, business and management and more. Many Physics graduates go into the research and development sections of 'hi-tech' industry such as opto-electronics, computing, telecommunications, materials, motor vehicle technology, semiconductors, and power generation. There are also opportunities in medical physics, meteorology, and research concerned with an understanding and protection of the environment.

When choosing your study destination and graduate Physics course, be sure to carefully consider which specialisation you want to go into and which university or college offers the best facilities and teaching for that particular area. Good Luck!

With thanks to:
Philip Diamond
Manager, Higher Education & Research
Institute of Physics