Embracing the study of the most basic natural laws, physics explains how and why things work on scales ranging from the sub-nuclear, through the everyday, and on to the entire cosmos. As a physicist you will explore and identify basic principles governing the structure and behaviour of matter, the generation and transfer of energy, and the interaction of matter and energy. You may choose to use these principles in theoretical or experimental studies on topics such as the nature of time and the origin of the Universe; or alternatively you may apply your physics knowledge to practical areas, developing advanced materials, electronic and optical devices, and equipment for a wide range of fields such as medicine, mining, astronomy and geophysics. As a physicist, you have career opportunities in new interdisciplinary areas such as information technology, nanotechnology, quantum technology and biophotonics. In other newly developing areas in the biosciences, an understanding of basic physical principles is one of the keys to advancing knowledge.

Physics graduates develop robust, high-level analytical and problem-solving skills that are widely applicable and highly valued by a diverse range of employers including those in education, finance, engineering, computing and management. Physicists engage in a wide range of exciting and rewarding careers across many industries in both the public and private sectors. Many physicists are employed by governments in research and management positions; by universities in the areas of teaching, research and technical positions; as education and science communicators; in health and medical sectors; and in nuclear physics. Other physicists take a higher degree and work in research and development; undertaking fundamental research to increase scientific knowledge, or applied research to develop new devices, products or processes.