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Do Physics, Be Anything!


bullet We Mean It - Anything! Physicists and astronomers study fundamental questions about nature, "the why" behind how things work. Topics range from dark matter and dark energy in the universe, to quantum computing, to superconductivity, to string theory, to nanomachines. In addition to changing the way we view the universe, physics enhances our daily lives by developing the technology behind hard drives, lasers, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), solar cells, and iPods.
Do you think physics is too hard for you?

bullet Meet UNC Alumni in a variety of careers where their physics and astronomy education is invaluable:
  • Adam Falk relies on the problem-solving skills he learned in physics to run a college.
  • Antonio Cortes is a pilot who uses physics as a reality check against automated flight systems.
  • Heidi Schweiker is an astronomer who manages telescope operations at an observatory.
  • Ted Steger is a medical physicist who helps patients minimize their risk with radiation therapy.

bullet Meet Current UNC Students
  • Lauren Bain finds beauty in the complex patterns in nature that are described by physics.
  • Mark Schubel likes to think about applied physics problems, like fixing his car.
  • Megan Carlson sees physics everywhere.
  • Chris Nickell uses his physics skills to make the theater experience more realistic.
Learn about other current UNC students here.
Interested in research? See what other students are researching, then see what current opportunities are available.

bullet Interested in Becoming a Physics Teacher? The UNC Baccalaureate Education in Science & Teaching (UNC BEST) is a program that provides a fast track to licensure so physics, biology, chemistry, geological sciences, and mathematics majors can earn their high school teaching license during their four years of undergraduate study. The program is highly streamlined because the four education courses also fulfill degree requirements as electives within the major or as General Education Requirements.

bullet Career Paths for Physicists. Employers know that physicists understand the "why" behind things, which equips them to solve unconventional problems. This is why employers are willing to pay top dollar for those with a bachelor's degree in physics, including many companies in North Carolina. Over 90 percent of all physics majors do something other than teach or conduct research at a university. Some common physics career paths you may not already know about include:
Also find some statistics on what physicists do after graduation. The Society of Physics Students provides a wealth of information about careers pursued by physicists.

More information on the UNC undergraduate physics program.
 
Maintained by: webmaster@physics.unc.edu  |  Last updated: 11 January, 2011