Physics is crucial to understanding the world around us, the world inside us, and the world beyond us. It is the most basic and fundamental science. Physics encompasses the study of the universe from the largest galaxies to the smallest subatomic particles. Moreover, it’s the basis of many other sciences including chemistry, oceanography, seismology, and astronomy. It can also be applied to biology or medical sciences. Many students go on to pursue careers in engineering, computer sciences, teaching, and graduate studies in physics.
Common employers
- Aerotek
- Google Raytheon
- Elucent Medical
- Keysight Technologies
- Blue Line Engineering
- Sierra Nevada Corporation
- Northrop Grumman
Common job titles
- Software Engineer
- Web Developer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Systems Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Technical Specialist
- High School Physics Teacher
- Design Engineer
Factors of success
- Engagement with the CSU Career Center
- Internship or research involvement
- GPA
- On campus employment
For more information visit the Department of Physics’ website:
Career checklist
- Go to the Career Center’s drop-in hours or schedule an appointment with a Career Educator to discuss what you should be doing to develop career skills. The Career Center is located at room 120 of the Lory Student Center. See https://career.colostate.edu/ or call (970) 491-5707 to see a Career Educator or to explore the many resources available.
- Log into Handshake, the CSU Career Center’s online location for on-campus jobs, internships, and careers.
- Join a student organization relevant to Physics:
- Learn about the two concentrations offered within the Physics major: https://col.st/ZErAI
- Create a resume and learn how to write a cover letter based on the handouts in the Career Center and on the website. Then have your resume and cover letter reviewed in a drop-in session at the Career Center or make an appointment with a Career Educator.
- Attend an appointment or drop-in at the Career Center to discuss job/internship search strategies and tips for interviewing.
- Apply for undergraduate internship: https://www.physics.colostate.edu/undergraduate-students/career-resources/
- To learn about possible research opportunities:
- Run for a leadership role in a student organization.
- Update your resume and/or CV for internships or on-campus jobs.
- Attend an appointment or drop-in at the Career Center to discuss job/internship search strategies and tips for interviewing.
- Apply for undergraduate internship options: https://www.physics.colostate.edu/undergraduate-students/career-resources/
- Learn about graduate school in Physics: https://www.physics.colostate.edu/graduate-students/
- Update your resume and/or CV.
- Present research at CSU:
- Attend a mock interview session at the Career Center to prepare for the job search or graduate school interviews.
- Attend many networking events to meet employers and increase your chances of landing a job.
- Ask three professors and/or employers to be professional references.
- You may continue to use the Career Center for guidance! All services are still available to you at no cost for one year after graduation and for a small fee after that.
