Careers in Physics and Astronomy
Getting Started
Career exploration takes time and is an iterative process that begins with reflection. Ask yourself: what kind of life do I want?
If you’re unsure where to begin, we recommend starting with the following chapters:
- Start Here: Your Career Path
- The Importance Of Self-Assessment In Career Planning
- How To Research Career Paths
- Finding Your Impact: A Problem-Solving Approach To Career Planning
- Take Action: Test Out Your Career Ideas
For personalized support, book an appointment with a Science Career Advisor at the Science Careers & Experience Centre (BSB 127) on OSCARplus.
Studying Physics and Astronomy At McMaster
Interested in learning more about Physics and Astronomy programs at McMaster? Visit the Department of Physics and Astronomy and consult the Academic Calendar for detailed program information. For guidance on program eligibility and requirements, connect with an Academic Advisor in BSB 136.
What Skills Do Physics and Astronomy Graduates Develop?
Graduates of McMaster’s Physics and Astronomy programs build a wide range of employability skills, including:
Science Professional Competencies
In addition to discipline-specific skills, McMaster Science students develop eight Science Professional Competencies that prepare them for diverse career paths. Learn more about these competencies here.
Entering The Workforce
Physics and Astronomy graduates from McMaster pursue careers across a wide range of industry sectors. Most commonly, they work in:
Spotlight of potential careers for Physics and Astronomy graduates
Want to learn more about one of these occupations? Use the Government of Canada Job Bank “Job Profiles” tool to explore job descriptions, education requirements, and labour market trends.
Other common occupations for Physics and Astronomy graduates:
Click on a job title to learn more about the role, qualifications, and employment outlook in Canada:
- Accountant
- Actuary
- Animation
- Architect
- Biomedical Engineer
- Computational Physicist
- Computer Engineer
- Biophysicist
- Financial Quantitative Modeler
- Hydrographer
- Materials Scientist
- MRI Technologist
- Prosthetics Designer
- Quantum Cryptographer
- Quantitative Analyst
- Robotics Technologist
- Photonics Scientist
- Radar Project Manager
- Radiation Protection Specialist
- Risk-Manager
- Satellite Engineer
- Science Journalist
- Laser Technician
- Optical Sensors Researcher
- Remote Sensing
- Renewable Energy Manager
- Statistical Mechanics Expert
- TV Science Advisor
The occupations shared above is not an exhaustive list of careers you can pursue!
Connect With McMaster Alumni
Curious about what McMaster Physics and Astronomy graduates have done with their degree? Join MacConnect, McMaster’s alumni networking platform, hosted by Alumni Career Services.
MacConnect gives you access to a global community of Marauders and is your key to connecting with alumni who are eager to support your career journey. It’s quick and easy to sign up—and you’ll find a wealth of experience, insights, and career advice from a generous and diverse alumni network.
Use MacConnect to:
- Explore career paths by connecting with alumni in your field of interest
- Learn what it’s like to work abroad and gain international perspectives
- Get job search tips from experienced professionals
- Discover how others have used their McMaster degree across industries
- Build meaningful relationships with alumni mentors and expand your network
For more guidance on how to network with alumni, visit Conducting Information Interviews.
Further Education
It is very common for undergraduate students to pursue additional education or training. Use the Government of Canada Can Learn Program Search tool to explore further education programs across Canada, including certificates and diplomas.
Physics-Specific Professional Associations
Professional associations are excellent sources of industry-specific information, networking opportunities, and often feature dedicated job boards. Consider joining one aligned with your discipline or career interests:
Physics-Specific Job Search Resources
Looking for job opportunities in related fields? These platforms offer targeted listings and resources:
For additional job search support, visit the following chapters:
Need more support with your career planning?
Meet with a Science Career Advisor
Book a 30-minute appointment with the Science Careers & Experience Centre (BSB 127) in advance through OSCARplus.
Design your future with SCIENCE 2DL3
Enrol in SCIENCE 2DL3: Design Your Science Career— an interactive career development course designed to help undergraduate students take charge of their future with creativity and confidence.
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