Top jobs with a masters in physics

Find out how studying for a masters qualification in physics at Surrey opens up a wide range of job and career opportunities.

The jobs market

Demand for physics skills is growing, and not only in "traditional" physics roles in aerospace, academia, tech, energy and computing. Emerging, global growth areas like quantum technologies, photonics, advanced materials and renewable energy modelling all require graduates with high-level physics knowledge. All these industries offer abundant opportunities for physics postgraduates to contribute to innovation and technological advancements.

Physics postgraduates have opportunities to work in research institutions, universities, government laboratories and private research organisations. They contribute to cutting-edge research in areas such as particle physics, astrophysics, condensed matter physics, nuclear physics and quantum mechanics. And because physics provides strong quantitative skills, many graduates transition into data science, software and consulting roles, jobs with international mobility.

Quantum computing is a rapidly evolving field and an exciting emerging technology. I have no doubt that it will transform
many industries and sectors, from healthcare to engineering to finance – it might even help physicists like me solve the mysteries of the universe. Having a masters degree in quantum computing will open many exciting career opportunities in research, development, and implementation of the technology as it arrives and will give an incredible competitive advantage in a new job market.
Professor Jim Al-Khalili, Distinguished Professor Emeritus in Physics

What Surrey offers

Our Applied Quantum Computing MSc course is currently unique in the UK. This is a truly interdisciplinary programme which aims to meet the demand for the rapidly growing sector. Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionise many industries and scientific disciplines in the next decade.

Former students of our MSc in Nuclear Science and Radiation Protection have secured roles at UK and overseas nuclear regulatory agencies, in the nuclear industry and at the National Physical Laboratory, among others. This MSc can also lead to further study, such as completing a PhD.

Studying Medical Physics is fantastic...it's a science field that gives you a clear path to helping people. Understanding physics also gives you an understanding on how to improve modern medicine and make it more humane and caring towards patients. Pasha Dylan, Medical Physics MSc

Graduate success stories

We have an excellent employability record with top students regularly obtaining positions at well-known organisations. Many go on to UK and overseas nuclear regulatory agencies as well as the nuclear industry. Recent graduates have secured jobs at: