How to become a physicist
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- a graduate trainee scheme
University
You'll need a degree in physics, applied physics, or a related science or engineering subject. You may also need a relevant postgraduate qualification, like a master's degree or PhD.
If you do not have the required entry qualifications to do a physics degree, you may be able to do a 1-year physics foundation course.
Some physics degrees combine an undergraduate degree and master's qualification, like an MPhys or MSci. You'll do more independent research and courses may lead directly onto further postgraduate study like a PhD.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Apprenticeship
You could do a level 7 research scientist degree apprenticeship.
This apprenticeship typically takes 30 months to complete.
It may give you some of the requirements you need to become a chartered physicist.
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
a degree in a relevant subject
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Other Routes
In some industries you may be able to start on a research scientist, graduate training scheme after completing your degree or postgraduate qualification.
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Career tips
Try to get work experience to find out more about job roles and the sectors where you could apply your knowledge and skills as a physicist. Look out for:
- work placements
- internships and vacation schemes
- the Year in Industry programme
Further information
You can find out more about careers in physics through the Institute of Physics.