What job opportunities are offered for a bachelors degree of joint honours in both physics and math besides teaching?
Mostly teaching, or white collar jobs in sales, information processing or accounting. That would be a good education for a science or math teacher. Sad to say, but a bachelor's degree in physics or math is not a ticket to a lot of lucrative career in industry these days. I am a physicist myself, but managed to do OK mainly by virtue of a double major in engineering, and by attending graduate school. You might want to consider a master's degree, especially a multidisciplinary one with laser/optics, engineering and/or biology emphasis.
I agree with DrWLS. There are not many jobs available for a bachelor degree in physics, or math.
A friend of mine with a B.S in physics from a very good school ended up in civil service, as the elected County Assessor in a small county and than as assistant assessor in a large county. He disliked the politics of that field, and ended up becoming a skilled boatbuilder and carpenter. My son had a B.S in math which got him no skilled jobs at all, until he passed certification as an actuary by taking correspondence courses for several years. Then a whole range of jobs and entrepreneurial opportunites opened up to him. The pages of Physics Today often have articles by and letters from scientists who chose that field, or who advise using the training of that difficult field to branch out into other areas, such as investments, forensics, health care etc.
A bachelor's degree in joint honors in physics and mathematics can open up various job opportunities beyond teaching. Here are a few career paths you may consider:
1. Research Scientist: With a strong background in physics and mathematics, you can work in research and development. You may find opportunities in fields such as aerospace, energy, electronics, or computing, where you can conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop new technologies.
To find job opportunities in research science, you can:
- Look for research positions at academic institutions, national laboratories, or private research organizations.
- Stay updated with job listings on specialized websites, job boards, and professional networking platforms.
- Network with professionals in the field through conferences, seminars, or online communities.
2. Data Scientist: Your math and physics skills can be valuable for analyzing complex data sets and extracting valuable insights. Data scientists are in demand across multiple industries, including healthcare, finance, technology, and marketing.
To pursue a career in data science, you can:
- Enhance your programming skills, especially in languages like Python or R, which are commonly used in data analysis.
- Familiarize yourself with statistical techniques, machine learning algorithms, and data visualization tools.
- Build a portfolio of projects that demonstrate your data analysis skills.
- Seek internships or entry-level positions in companies or research institutes working on data-driven projects.
3. Financial Analyst: Your analytical and quantitative abilities can make you a strong candidate for roles in finance, such as financial analyst or quantitative analyst. These jobs involve analyzing financial data, assessing risk, and making projections.
To enter the finance industry, you can:
- Gain knowledge of financial markets, including stocks, bonds, derivatives, and investment strategies.
- Develop proficiency in financial modeling and analysis using tools like Excel or specialized software.
- Consider pursuing additional certifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Financial Risk Manager (FRM) to enhance your marketability.
4. Engineering: Your expertise in both physics and mathematics can be applied in various engineering fields, such as mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering. Engineers use scientific principles to design and develop new technologies and solutions.
To explore engineering opportunities, you can:
- Identify the specific engineering discipline that aligns with your interests and skills.
- Acquire relevant engineering knowledge and skills through further education or certifications.
- Search for entry-level engineering positions with companies that operate in your chosen field.
- Network with engineers and professionals in your desired industry to gain insights and potential job leads.
Lastly, it's important to tailor your job search to your specific interests and strengths. Researching industry trends, attending career fairs, and seeking guidance from career advisors or mentors can also help you uncover more opportunities.