The Physics/Astronomy Dept is a member of the College of Science and Technology at Western Washington University in Bellingham, WA USA.  
 
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APS Career Center is the premier electronic recruitment resource for the industry. Here, employers and recruiters can access the most qualified talent pool with relevant work experience to fulfill staffing needs.

Career Choices

What Can You Do With a Degree in Physics?

Careers in the private sector for people with a B.S. in physics include applied sciences, such as engineering and technology. These jobs pay well. Typically, some experience is required with computer programming or operation of computer design applications, such as CAD programs. The B.A. degree, in conjuction with an Professional Education degree and Teaching Certification, will prepare you for seeking a job teaching high school physics. Careers in the academic sector, such as research and teaching at a college or university, are available for people with advanced degrees (M.S., PhD.). If you plan on pursuing an advanced degree in physics, engineering, or astronomy, you will be best prepared by obtaining a B.S. in physics.

Which Line Of Work Is For You?

Probably the best way to figure out the "right fit" in a job is to clarify what interests you the most.  Do your research.  Think about the kinds of work you are interested in, and learn everything you can about your top two or three areas of interest.  What inspires you most? Also think about your own natural strengths and abilities, as well as your values.  How do you see yourself, and where do you see yourself working? How do you really want to spend your time?  What specific goals do you wish to achieve?  What type of company or organization would you like to work with?  What kinds of people do you wish to work with?

Look through the resources listed in this web site, and use all the resources available to you at Western's Career Services Center. The Center is the best resource for assistance with career planning, assessments, internships, job market information, job search services, and alumni services. The Career Center offers individual counseling as well as a wide variety of workshops.

We also invite you to talk with the Physics/Astronomy Advisor and any faculty you wish concerning employment opportunities, graduate schools, etc.  

Consider Doing An Internship

Why do an internship? Internships and volunteer community service positions offer an excellent opportunity to explore career options and gain practical experience.  Students learn a variety of skills through direct participation in settings where sociological concepts, methods and theories are applied.  Internships also offer a way to build your resume and enhance prospects for employment after graduation. How to find an internship position: Excellent opportunities exist for summer research interships, especially for undergraduates completing their junior year. For more information check out Research Experience for Undergraduates.
  • Job Search Strategies
  • Resume writing
  • Cover letter writing
  • Interviewing techniques
  • Developing an internship
  • Getting into graduate school

Attend career fairs and other events. Several career fairs and other events are offered throughout the year to help students and alumni research employers and job opportunities.  Check the special events schedule to see what events are scheduled for this quarter.

During your senior year, register with the Career Services Center to take full advantage of job search services, including on-campus interviews and the candidate referral program.

Also participate in on-campus recruiting. Business, industry and government organizations recruit during fall, winter, and spring quarters. School districts recruit primarily during winter and spring quarters.

Here are several other Job Search Strategies

  • Contact agencies, companies or organizations you would like to work for and see if they're hiring
  • Check with the state employment opportunity office
  • Talk with parents and others about job possibilities in their companies
  • Check local newspaper classified ads--especially on Sunday
  • Consider volunteer or internship positions (these sometimes lead to paid positions)
  • Call employment/temporary placement agencies
  • Check the internet for job posting web sites--several are listed below

Job Listings

Job Hotlines. The Career Services Center maintains a list of job hotline numbers.  Many employers use automated telephone listings to announce current openings and provide application information.  Stop by the Center for a copy.


Job Search Websites.  When you register with the Career Services Center, you'll have on-line access to a weekly Job Opportunity Bulletin which lists regional openings.  Also check out the following sites:

Considering Graduate School?

An excellent resource is offered by the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA).  See Graduate School Information for graduate school rankings and advice for undergraduates considering graduate school.

Preparing for Graduate School.  During your junior year, or early in your senior year, you should begin talking with W.W.U. faculty about how to prepare for graduate school. You should also begin contacting the schools you wish to consider. To apply to graduate school you will need to begin planning at least a year before the fall in which you intend to enter. Most schools only accept students in the fall and expect to have all of your materials in hand by the end of the previous December. Most departments require you to fill out an application form, including a personal statement on why you want to pursue graduate work. You will probably be asked to supply a transcript and at least three letters of reference. It is therefore to your advantage to get to know faculty by taking small classes, writing papers, serving as a teaching assistant, or getting involved in faculty research projects. Many departments also require applicants to take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE), which includes a special section on physics.

The Graduate Record Exam (GRE). For information see Graduate Record Exam. Be sure to look through the "GRE Free Publications section". This site contains a description of test content, sample test questions, and test taking strategies for the Sociology section of the GRE.

Western's BS Program in Physics. Our program emphasizes training in theory and research. The goal is to fully prepare the student for study on the graduate level.

    Need help or information? You can reach the Physics/Astronomy Advisor by phone or email for answers or to make an appointment.