What can you do with a Physics degree from The University of Texas at Austin?

First, some facts. Of the Physics graduates from The University of Texas at Austin we've analyzed , here's how many have used (or NOT used) their degree in their career:

These are estimates based on AI analysis of 24 LinkedIn profiles (see below).

The verdict? Slightly below average. Overall, with an average relevance score of 66%, Physics graduates from The University of Texas at Austin have a slightly lower likelihood (-1%) of finding work in this field compared to the average graduate across all fields:

And for comparison, here's the chart for all profiles we've looked at across all degrees.

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Also, after graduating, 41% of these graduates have pursued further education other than another Bachelor's degree (such as a Masters degree or other), compared to the average across all profiles of 35%. This suggests you may need more than just a Bachelors degree to be competitive as a Physics graduate.

See the details:

• What jobs can you get with a Physics degree from The University of Texas at Austin?
• What do Physics graduates from The University of Texas at Austin do 1, 5 or 10 years out?
• How hard is a Physics degree from The University of Texas at Austin? How long does it take?
• How much money can you make with a Physics degree from The University of Texas at Austin?
• What are the best colleges for Physics?

View a random Physics graduate from The University of Texas at Austin and our analysis:

Relevance score: 90% We think this person has gone into a career highly relevant to their degree. DEGREE INFO Graduated in 2011 from The University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science in Physics. Also pursued further education since (see below). JOB HISTORY SINCE GRADUATION Technician Applied Nanotech, Inc. Jun 2011 - Sep 2011 As a Technician at Applied Nanotech, Inc., the job utilizes knowledge of physics, particularly in nanotechnology applications, which is directly relevant to the Bachelor's degree in Physics. Programmer Bridgeport Instruments LLC Jun 2011 - Sep 2011 The role of a Programmer at Bridgeport Instruments LLC may involve some analytical skills from physics, but programming is not a core qualification of a physics degree and does not utilize physics knowledge substantially on a daily basis. Research Assistant Saxet Surface Science Oct 2011 - Aug 2012 The position of Research Assistant at Saxet Surface Science directly applies the principles and knowledge of physics, particularly in materials science, thus making it very relevant to the Bachelor's degree in Physics. FURTHER DEGREES DONE SINCE GRADUATING Master of Science Texas State University 2012 - 2015 ABOUT No information provided.

What jobs can you get with a Physics degree from The University of Texas at Austin?

The top 10 most common jobs done by the graduates we've analyzed (ranked most common to least) are:

• Research Assistant
• API 570 Authorized Piping Inspector
• Systems Engineer
• STEM Instructor
• Graduate Research Assistant
• Visiting Scholar
• Software Engineer
• Engineering Scientist Associate
• Owner
• Lead Software Developer

When we look at the careers of people who graduated with a Physics degree from The University of Texas at Austin, there seems to be a mix of physics-related jobs and roles that dance around the edges of the field. A significant number of graduates went into positions like Research Assistant, Engineer, or data-focused roles in R&D, where the connection to physics is pretty direct. These jobs often involve applying the concepts learned in their degree, using their understanding of physical principles in practical settings, and sometimes pushing the boundaries of research in exciting new areas like nanotechnology, materials science, and nuclear systems.

However, there's also a noticeable chunk of alumni who took a different path—either moving into non-technical roles or jobs where physics isn't the star of the show. Positions like Software Developer, Management Trainee, and even Sales Associate pop up fairly often, showcasing a broadening of career options that don’t always demand the specialized knowledge gained from a Physics degree. These jobs often leverage problem-solving and analytical skills that are part and parcel of a Physics education, but they don’t require hands-on physics expertise in everyday tasks. So, while many graduates find rewarding careers that keep them in the physics sphere, others branch out into areas that might seem a bit disconnected from their studies. This shows the versatility of a Physics degree, preparing graduates for a variety of paths—both in and out of traditional physics roles.

Here is a visual representation of the most common words in job titles for Physics graduates (this is across all Physics graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to The University of Texas at Austin):

What kind of career trajectories do Physics graduates from The University of Texas at Austin have? What do they do 1, 5 or 10 years out?

So, if you're considering a degree in Physics from The University of Texas at Austin, it looks like you could be stepping into some pretty diverse career paths! When you first graduate, many students are likely to land jobs that are somewhat technical in nature, like as a technician, programmer, or research assistant. For instance, people who graduated in the early 2010s often began their careers in technician roles or as research assistants, providing a solid entry point into the science and technology sectors. It seems like these types of roles help build practical skills and experience that are quite valuable moving forward.

Fast forward five to ten years later, the picture gets even more interesting. Many alumni have transitioned into significant positions that are quite aligned with their physics background, such as R&D associates, engineering specialists, and software developers. Others have made their way into management and leadership roles, particularly in engineering and technical fields. However, it's important to note that not everyone sticks strictly to the physics path—some have branched out into teaching, technology support, or even creative industries like photography and digital marketing. Overall, it looks like a degree in Physics from UT Austin provides a solid foundation for a variety of careers, though it's also clear that some graduates venture into fields less directly related to their studies. So, the possibilities are wide open!

How hard is a Physics degree from The University of Texas at Austin?

Getting a Bachelor’s degree in Physics, especially at a university like The University of Texas at Austin, can be pretty challenging. It's not just about crunching numbers; you'll dive deep into complex concepts that require a strong grasp of math and analytical thinking. The coursework is demanding, with a mix of rigorous classes in mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum physics, and advanced labs that can add an extra layer of intensity. Many students find it a rewarding journey if they’re really passionate about the subject, but be prepared to put in a lot of time and effort into studying and problem-solving. It’s definitely on the harder side compared to some other majors, but if you like the material and can stay motivated, you’ll find it can be really fulfilling!

How long does it take?

Most commonly, in the LinkedIn profiles we've looked at, it takes people 4 years to finish a Bachelor degree in Physics.

Do Physics graduates from The University of Texas at Austin tend to make good money?

Looking at the job trajectories of these Physics graduates from UT Austin, it seems like many of them are doing pretty well financially, especially those who have moved into specialized fields like engineering, data analysis, and research at reputable institutions. For instance, the ones working at places like Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Indeed.net likely have solid salaries, not to mention the postdoctoral researchers at Harvard and other elite research centers, which usually pay decently. However, there are also some in more niche roles or those who are self-employed, like tutors and instructors, who might not be raking in the big bucks right away. Overall, while individual experiences may vary, it looks like the majority have landed decent-paying jobs with good prospects for growth, especially in engineering and data science. So if you’re considering going into Physics, you’ve got a good chance of making a pretty comfortable living down the road!

What buzzwords do Physics graduates use to describe themselves?

Here is a visual representation of the most common words seen in the "about" section of LinkedIn profiles who have a Bachelor degree in Physics (this is across all Physics graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to The University of Texas at Austin). This may or may not be useful:

What are the best colleges for Physics?

Here are all colleges offering a Bachelor degree in Physics (ordered by the average relevance score of their Physics graduates, best to worst) where we have analyzed at least 10 of their graduates:

College	Score	Count
University of California, Berkeley	83	12
UC Santa Barbara	81	12
University of California, Los Angeles	79	10
The University of Texas at Austin	66	24
University of Washington	55	14