Additional Information
Physicists need a minimum of a bachelor's degree in their science or a
related discipline. Those conducting research or teaching in a post-secondary
institution require a master's or doctoral degree.
High school students interested in physics can look into university programs
to find a solid and well-rounded physics department. This includes well-equipped
labs, a faculty active in research and a proven track record of placing students
into good jobs or graduate school, says Robert J. Ragan. He is an assistant
professor in the physics department at the University of Wisconsin at La Crosse.
"I think it is a good idea for a department to have concentrations in specific
specialties like optics, for example, so that students can get advanced preparation
in specific fields," Ragan says.
Physicists generally specialize in a certain area, including elementary
particle physics, nuclear physics, atomic and molecular physics, optics, acoustics
and space physics.
"In general, you can get a good education at many different sorts of institutions,
and you need to decide what type of environment fits your learning style,
personality and goals best," says physics professor Allen Mincer.
Mincer offers other tips to find a good program.
"Find out how many graduates go on to graduate school, and which schools
they go to. This will tell you a lot about what is emphasized in the program,"
he says.
"Find out if the faculty are involved in research and whether undergraduates
can participate in it. An active research faculty can introduce more excitement
and expertise in the classroom and give the student the opportunity for hands-on
learning in the lab."
However, there is a downside to an active research faculty. They usually
have less time to devote to teaching. "So some students may do better in a
school where research is not stressed as much," he says.
You must have certain skills and interests to be successful in physics.
"They need to be very good in math, and enjoy working on difficult problems,"
Mincer says. "Curiosity and creativity and the ability to recognize when you
don't understand something helps a lot.
"You also have to be willing to constantly challenge your own assumptions,
and to keep relearning things you thought you understood. It is easy to stay
motivated if you are driven by a desire to understand nature and are in awe
of its beauty."