5 answers
Aditi
Student
Rehan, HP
2
Questions
Updated
1419 views
Need guidence for a career in physics..
I am a sophomore at high schoole with a interest in Physics and need guidence in the field.
Which degrees should I get it I have a interest in Theriotical Physics? What are the career options? What projects should I join for it's sake as a high schooler? What concepts should I start to collect information about??
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5 answers
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1092
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Aditi,
I would recommend that you get a bachelors degree in physics. During your undergraduate studies, you'll get a good foundation in all areas of physics. Alternatively, you could also major in mathematics. Choose a university that has significant research in theoretical physics. I left some links to universities in India and rankings below.
Get involved in research e.g. through summer programs or undergraduate research early on. Find out where your niche might be. You'll almost certainly need a PhD for a career in theoretical physics, so get your masters and PhD in whatever area of theoretical physics you want to specialize in. Options include quantum physics, string theory, astrophysics, particle physics, condensed matter physics etc.
Some institutions with significant research in theoretical physics:
https://www.tifr.res.in/
https://www.imsc.res.in/theoretical_physics
https://www.icts.res.in/
https://www.rri.res.in/
Summer programs:
https://www.imsc.res.in/summer_research_programme
https://www.tifr.res.in/academics/summer_program.php
Many career paths in theoretical physics will lead you to universities and research institutions. Industries in quantum computing, data science, defense, aerospace, finance, and electronics are other options.
You'll need lots of mathematics and computing to follow this career path. Focus on your STEM classes in high-school. I would also recommend to start programming if you haven't done so yet.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
https://edurank.org/physics/theoretical/in/
https://www.bachelorsportal.com/search/bachelor/physics/india
I would recommend that you get a bachelors degree in physics. During your undergraduate studies, you'll get a good foundation in all areas of physics. Alternatively, you could also major in mathematics. Choose a university that has significant research in theoretical physics. I left some links to universities in India and rankings below.
Get involved in research e.g. through summer programs or undergraduate research early on. Find out where your niche might be. You'll almost certainly need a PhD for a career in theoretical physics, so get your masters and PhD in whatever area of theoretical physics you want to specialize in. Options include quantum physics, string theory, astrophysics, particle physics, condensed matter physics etc.
Some institutions with significant research in theoretical physics:
https://www.tifr.res.in/
https://www.imsc.res.in/theoretical_physics
https://www.icts.res.in/
https://www.rri.res.in/
Summer programs:
https://www.imsc.res.in/summer_research_programme
https://www.tifr.res.in/academics/summer_program.php
Many career paths in theoretical physics will lead you to universities and research institutions. Industries in quantum computing, data science, defense, aerospace, finance, and electronics are other options.
You'll need lots of mathematics and computing to follow this career path. Focus on your STEM classes in high-school. I would also recommend to start programming if you haven't done so yet.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hello Aditi. It's great you're exploring a career in physics so early. A strong foundation now will set you up for success.
To become a theoretical physicist, you'll need to pursue a bachelor's degree in physics. During this time, make sure to take as many advanced math classes as you can, including calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations. This is just the beginning, most professional theoretical physicists go on to earn a PhD, which is essential for research-oriented roles.
A degree in theoretical physics gives you valuable skills that are useful in many different jobs. While becoming a professor is one option, it's very competitive. However, your skills in problem-solving and analysis can lead you to other great careers. You could become a data scientist, using your modeling skills to analyze information. You might also work as a quantitative analyst in the finance industry, using math to understand the stock market.
Even in high school, you can start building your experience. Think about participating in science fairs and focusing on a physics project, like building a simple model or designing an experiment. As for concepts, you can start exploring modern physics concepts like quantum mechanics. Don't worry about the complex math just yet, but understanding the core ideas will give you a big advantage.
To become a theoretical physicist, you'll need to pursue a bachelor's degree in physics. During this time, make sure to take as many advanced math classes as you can, including calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations. This is just the beginning, most professional theoretical physicists go on to earn a PhD, which is essential for research-oriented roles.
A degree in theoretical physics gives you valuable skills that are useful in many different jobs. While becoming a professor is one option, it's very competitive. However, your skills in problem-solving and analysis can lead you to other great careers. You could become a data scientist, using your modeling skills to analyze information. You might also work as a quantitative analyst in the finance industry, using math to understand the stock market.
Even in high school, you can start building your experience. Think about participating in science fairs and focusing on a physics project, like building a simple model or designing an experiment. As for concepts, you can start exploring modern physics concepts like quantum mechanics. Don't worry about the complex math just yet, but understanding the core ideas will give you a big advantage.
🪴 Christina Smith 💼
Recruiter & Career Coach
7
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
🪴 Christina’s Answer
Love your curiosity and drive! Here’s some practical guidance to help you start strong in theoretical physics:
Degrees to Consider:
Bachelor’s in Physics (most common starting point)
Consider double majoring or minoring in Math or Computer Science—both are super valuable for theory work
Later, a Master’s or Ph.D. in Physics, with a focus on theoretical or mathematical physics
Career Options:
Research scientist (universities, labs, government agencies like NASA or DOE)
Data scientist or analyst (tech, finance, engineering)
Professor or educator
Roles in software development, engineering, or patent law (physics grads are in demand for problem-solving skills!)
Projects to Join as a High Schooler:
Science Olympiad, Physics Club, or Math Team
Local or national science fairs (ISEF, local competitions)
Summer research programs or camps (check out programs at nearby universities)
Online courses or coding projects—learning Python is a huge plus
Join forums like Physics Stack Exchange or Reddit’s r/Physics to ask questions and learn from others
Concepts to Start Exploring:
Classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and basic quantum mechanics
Relativity (special and general)
Calculus, algebra, and statistics
Programming basics (Python is great for simulations and data work)
Famous theories and experiments (like Schrödinger’s cat, double-slit experiment, etc.)
Pro Tip:
Start reading popular science books by physicists (like Stephen Hawking, Brian Greene, or Sean Carroll) to build intuition and stay inspired.
If you want more resources, or support along the way, you’re welcome to join my free Skool JobSeeker Hub community for tips, networking, and encouragement: https://www.skool.com/neo-hr-job-seekers-hub-1687/about?ref=fccacfa053b645c08c7ed1e4d9247f03
You’re off to a great start—keep asking questions and exploring! What’s one area of physics you’re most excited to learn about right now?
Degrees to Consider:
Bachelor’s in Physics (most common starting point)
Consider double majoring or minoring in Math or Computer Science—both are super valuable for theory work
Later, a Master’s or Ph.D. in Physics, with a focus on theoretical or mathematical physics
Career Options:
Research scientist (universities, labs, government agencies like NASA or DOE)
Data scientist or analyst (tech, finance, engineering)
Professor or educator
Roles in software development, engineering, or patent law (physics grads are in demand for problem-solving skills!)
Projects to Join as a High Schooler:
Science Olympiad, Physics Club, or Math Team
Local or national science fairs (ISEF, local competitions)
Summer research programs or camps (check out programs at nearby universities)
Online courses or coding projects—learning Python is a huge plus
Join forums like Physics Stack Exchange or Reddit’s r/Physics to ask questions and learn from others
Concepts to Start Exploring:
Classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and basic quantum mechanics
Relativity (special and general)
Calculus, algebra, and statistics
Programming basics (Python is great for simulations and data work)
Famous theories and experiments (like Schrödinger’s cat, double-slit experiment, etc.)
Pro Tip:
Start reading popular science books by physicists (like Stephen Hawking, Brian Greene, or Sean Carroll) to build intuition and stay inspired.
If you want more resources, or support along the way, you’re welcome to join my free Skool JobSeeker Hub community for tips, networking, and encouragement: https://www.skool.com/neo-hr-job-seekers-hub-1687/about?ref=fccacfa053b645c08c7ed1e4d9247f03
You’re off to a great start—keep asking questions and exploring! What’s one area of physics you’re most excited to learn about right now?
Thankyou for your answer it means a lot as I sometimes feel really lost about how to continue. I love exploring experiments and theories like the theory of relativity, big bang, Mary's room, Schrodinger's cat, Heinesberg principle etc.
Aditi
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2431
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know that you have interest in physics and would like to start your careers related physics.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Many careers are related to physics, e.g. mechanical engineering, civil engineer, electrical & electronic engineering, acoustic engineering, academic researcher, physics teacher, etc. You can find out more physics related careers online
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Many careers are related to physics, e.g. mechanical engineering, civil engineer, electrical & electronic engineering, acoustic engineering, academic researcher, physics teacher, etc. You can find out more physics related careers online
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Kristen Jaccodine
High School School Counselor (Guidance Counselor)
18
Answers
Sussex, New Jersey
Updated
Kristen’s Answer
As a high school sophomore, you have some time to plan and research this career field. To prepare for a potential major in physics (for college), take advantage of the science and math classes your high school offers. If your school offers levels of physics (on an honors and/or advanced placement) - look to take them as you continue through high school. If your high school only offers one level of physics, look at other physical science class offerings. Does your school offer a higher level of chemistry? Are classes like Earth Science, Geology, or Astronomy offered as electives?
It's also important to take advantage of the math offerings at your high school. To graduate from high school and to meet the basic admission requirements of the majority of four year colleges throughout the United States, high school students study Algebra 1, 2, and Geometry. For physics majors, Pre-Calculus and Calculus (if possible) are also recommended. Physics majors, regardless of the area you wish to study, have a strong math component. It is important to have completed at least pre-calculus if it is offered at your school.
Look at the electives your school offers. If there are any offerings for engineering, building, or Computer Aided Drawing and Drafting classes, or computer programming classes, will allow you to employ some physics principles, but will also provide you with topics that may be more of interest to you.
Colleges will look for students who are well-rounded and take advantage of the opportunities their high school offers. *If your high school does not offer something, that cannot be held against you. The college will know that when they receive information about your high school.
Outside of the classroom, look at the clubs and activities your school offers. Are there any engineering clubs? Science clubs? Research? Building? If not, that's okay. What's more important is that you do something beyond the classroom. It could be one activity or two that you are committed to. Joining clubs is a good way to expand your knowledge and see what's out there.
There is not a lot that you can do as a high school student in physics related fields, but, you could look in your community to see if there are any companies or firms that you could volunteer at that are in some way connected to the field you want to study. This may be a bit harder to do.
It's not too early for you to begin researching colleges with physics majors. Think of the size and location of the school you would want to attend. Big or small? In a city or the country? Once you develop a list of schools, look into them and more specifically, the physics major. Read about it, what classes you would take, what careers graduates of that school have entered. Then ask yourself, are you someone who wants to be behind the scenes conducting research? Or are you someone who wants to apply physics to a concept? A builder? A scientist? A structural architect?
You have an interest and a goal. It's good that you have an idea now. You took a great first step in asking the question. Great job! Keep it going. You can do this!
It's also important to take advantage of the math offerings at your high school. To graduate from high school and to meet the basic admission requirements of the majority of four year colleges throughout the United States, high school students study Algebra 1, 2, and Geometry. For physics majors, Pre-Calculus and Calculus (if possible) are also recommended. Physics majors, regardless of the area you wish to study, have a strong math component. It is important to have completed at least pre-calculus if it is offered at your school.
Look at the electives your school offers. If there are any offerings for engineering, building, or Computer Aided Drawing and Drafting classes, or computer programming classes, will allow you to employ some physics principles, but will also provide you with topics that may be more of interest to you.
Colleges will look for students who are well-rounded and take advantage of the opportunities their high school offers. *If your high school does not offer something, that cannot be held against you. The college will know that when they receive information about your high school.
Outside of the classroom, look at the clubs and activities your school offers. Are there any engineering clubs? Science clubs? Research? Building? If not, that's okay. What's more important is that you do something beyond the classroom. It could be one activity or two that you are committed to. Joining clubs is a good way to expand your knowledge and see what's out there.
There is not a lot that you can do as a high school student in physics related fields, but, you could look in your community to see if there are any companies or firms that you could volunteer at that are in some way connected to the field you want to study. This may be a bit harder to do.
It's not too early for you to begin researching colleges with physics majors. Think of the size and location of the school you would want to attend. Big or small? In a city or the country? Once you develop a list of schools, look into them and more specifically, the physics major. Read about it, what classes you would take, what careers graduates of that school have entered. Then ask yourself, are you someone who wants to be behind the scenes conducting research? Or are you someone who wants to apply physics to a concept? A builder? A scientist? A structural architect?
You have an interest and a goal. It's good that you have an idea now. You took a great first step in asking the question. Great job! Keep it going. You can do this!
Thanks for your encouragement!
Aditi
You are very welcome, Aditi. I hope you have a wonderful school year.
Kristen Jaccodine