Physics Career Scope: Jobs, Placements, Salary 2024, Top Recruiters/Companies

Updated on Dec 19, 2024 06:22 IST
Akansha Bisht

Akansha BishtContent Writer

Physics career scope around the globe is expanding with the tech landscape. The scope of the Physics career is not limited to Engineering but also covers the exciting fields of Nuclear Physics, Meteorology, Astronomy, Geophysics, Biotechnology, Cosmology, and more. 

The demand for Physics students around the globe is high as they specialize in Quantum Mechanics, Nuclear Physics, Thermodynamics, Acoustics, Medical Physics, Quantum Computing, etc. Hence, they can work for a variety of industries including IT, Healthcare, BFSI, Research, Education, Biotech, and so on.

Some popular job profiles for Physics students include Astronomer, Clinical Scientist, Medical Physicist, Geophysicist, Metallurgist, Meteorologist, Nanotechnologist, Technical Writer, etc. The average salary of a Medical Physicist is INR 7.2 LPA in India

Interested candidates can continue reading the article for more details related to Physics career scope.

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Physics Career: Quick Facts

Here are some quick interesting facts about Physics-related industries that candidates may find helpful:

  • The Medical Physics market is estimated to be valued at $4.64 billion in 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3% from 2024 to 2037. 

  • The physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences market is estimated to be valued at $472.05 billion in 2024, with a CAGR of 6.4% from 2023 to 2024. 

  • There are more than 3,900 Physics colleges in India, among them, more than 1,400 are private and 1,000 are government entities.

Links useful for Physics career scope:

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Top Career Profiles in Physics

Many professions and enticing pay scales are available after earning a Physics in India. A list of Physics jobs in India is provided below. 

Job Profiles Job Description Average Salary
Lab Technician They are primarily responsible for receiving, labelling, and securely keeping test samples. deciding which tests the analysis and report will require, and then carrying them out. INR 2.7 LPA
Medical Physicist They are healthcare professionals who develop and use medical devices, technologies, and radiation treatments. They work in hospitals, clinics, medical facilities, and private practices. INR 7.2 LPA
Astrologer They study the positions of celestial bodies to predict future events and trends for people. INR 10 LPA
Meteorologist Meteorologists study the Earth's atmosphere and climate to understand and predict atmospheric phenomena. They collect and determine the data, and then issue warnings based on it. INR 6.8 LPA
Nanotechnologist They Design instruments that can work at tiny scales. They also simulate nanotechnology applications using computer modelling. INR 4 LPA
Technical Writer Their role includes preparing instruction manuals, how-to guides, journal articles, and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily. INR 7.4 LPA

Note: The salary information is sourced from Ambitionbox.com.

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Emerging Trends in Physics Career

Any field can be reshaped by emerging trends, which also create new avenues for innovation and employment. In 2024, the following new terms are causing a stir in the Physics community:

  • Quantum Information and Computing: This multidisciplinary field leverages quantum mechanics to solve complicated problems more quickly than traditional computers. To fully realize the potential of quantum technologies, engineers and researchers in this area are essential.
  • Cosmology and Astrophysics: Astrophysics is the study of the physical and chemical characteristics of celestial bodies, including planets, stars, and galaxies. It involves studying things like black holes and supernovae.
    Cosmology is the study of the universe's beginnings, development, makeup, and destiny. Cosmologists investigate the properties, growth, origins and future of the universe as a whole. 
  • Artificial Intelligence and Physics: The connection between AI and physics is becoming more and more noticeable. The proficiency of physicists in data analysis, pattern recognition, and optimization is advantageous to AI algorithms. Because AI speeds up intricate calculations and simulations, it also advances physics research. Opportunities for innovation in particle physics, condensed matter physics, and other fields are made possible by this intersection.

Physics career Topics students find interesting:

Your Career as a Physicist

Physics Career Top Recruiters

There are numerous government and private organizations in sectors like IT, Healthcare, Research, Pharmaceutics, Education, etc., that hire Physics students for different job roles. Here are some top recruiters among them:

Physics Career Top Recruiters

National Institute Of Oceanography (NIO)

Accenture

KPMG

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

Facebook

Barclays

Centre for Good Governance (CGG)

Infosys

Genpact

Raman Research Institute (RRI)

Capgemini

IBM

Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR)

Grail Research

Asian Paints

Note: The information is sourced from external sources and may vary.

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Core Industries for Physics Career

The most gratifying jobs for Physics students are in research and development, even though they always face new challenges and must come up with innovative solutions. A Physics graduate can work in a variety of important fields. This is a list of them.

Job Sectors Description
Research Centres Physicists focus on the theoretical aspects of the subject as well as the tools used in laboratories. Astronomers study stars, planets, galaxies, and other objects; they control how things function in space. Whatever field you choose, all paths lead to a career in space research.
Laboratories Experimental Physicists often test theories and hypotheses, discover novel phenomena, and develop original applications of concepts in a lab setting. Theoretical physicists utilise mathematical reasoning as a tool to develop new ideas, predict the future, and interpret experimental findings.
Education Teachers of physics assist their pupils in comprehending all the rules governing energy, matter, force, and material. They frequently work with students from diverse backgrounds in high school or secondary settings. Physics instructors may develop compelling lesson plans because they are passionate about physical science.
Space Engineering To ensure that the goods adhere to engineering principles, aerospace engineers assess designs. The primary objects designed by aerospace engineers are aircraft, satellites, and missiles. They also develop prototypes and test them to make sure they work as intended.
Information Technology Physics students can get hired in IT sectors for roles like Software Engineer, QA Tester, Security Expert, Interface Engineer, etc. 
Healthcare In healthcare sectors, Medical Physicists are hired to develop and use medical technologies, plan radiation treatments, create imaging techniques, and more.

Note: The information is sourced from external sources and may vary.

Links useful for Physics career scope:

What are the career options after completing the MSc?

Best Physics Colleges for Placements (In India)

Campus placements organized for students are a great way to help them kick-start their career journey with top companies and real work. Here are some popular Physics colleges in India offering the best placement options to students:

Best Physics Colleges Average Package Offered
Bijni College Placements INR 47.04 LPA
Dibrugarh Hanumanbax Surajmall Kanoi College Placements INR 38.2 LPA
IISc Bangalore Placements INR 30 LPA
IIT Kharagpur Placements INR 12.5 - 24 LPA
IIT Madras Placements  INR 8.2 - 22 LPA
IISER Bhopal Placements INR 19 LPA
BITS Pilani Placements INR 18 LPA
Mumbai University Placements INR 18 LPA
IIT Bombay Placements INR 17.92 LPA
Delhi University Placements INR 5.5 - 16 LPA

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

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Life After Physics

Professionals' knowledge and experience are growing, creating greater options for employment abroad. One of the most varied courses in terms of graduation prospects for higher education and work options across a variety of fields in physics. The majority of physicists work for universities and divide their time between conducting research, imparting knowledge, and producing academic content. While some physicists work in teams in labs for the length of certain projects, many of them work solo on topics.

Graduates of physics programmes have the opportunity to find relevant employment in their field or the best line of study for additional education. Whether a graduate chooses to work or pursue further education, the field of physics has a very broad scope.

In addition to its broad scope of study and salary, the M.Sc in Physics course contributes significantly to helping students overcome their industrial challenges. 

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FAQs of Physics Career

Q. What profession in physics is the best?

A. The finest physics careers in terms of payment are as follows: Research scientist, lab manager, nuclear engineer, geophysicist, optical engineer, aeronautical engineer, and test engineer.

Q. Does pursuing Physics open up a lot of opportunities?

A. There is a high demand for physics graduates across a range of industries. Additionally, they include numeracy skills, problem-solving skills, data analysis skills, and the ability to convey complex concepts in addition to a broader understanding of how the world works.

Q. Do positions in physics have a demand?

A. Yes, physics jobs are in high demand. From 2021 to 2031, it is anticipated that the employment of physicists and astronomers as a whole will increase by 8%, faster than the average for all occupations.

Q. Are there any prospects for physics?

A. Physics and physicists are on the front lines, working to build the future in fields like robots, artificial intelligence, and gaming, as well as in the fight against cancer and climate change. There are many career options in physics in an era when employment is changing rapidly.

Q. Is studying physics difficult?

A. Physics is a difficult topic since it combines science and maths, which may be demanding for the best of us. Despite the difficulty, there is no reason why you cannot succeed if you follow a few simple guidelines and put yourself through some practice.  

Q. If I earn a BA in physics, may I join ISRO?

A. For enlisting as an SC Scientist with ISRO (entry-level). The minimum educational requirement is an Msc or a Btech. MSc degrees are available in physics, chemistry, or maths. If you have a B.S. in physics, you can join ISRO as a Technical Assistant. After finishing your M.S., you can advance to the position of Scientist-SC.

Q. Is physics a reliable profession?

A. With a wide variety of job choices available after college, physics degrees give students the chance to investigate and comprehend the underlying elements that make up the universe. Physics degrees are highly valued by employers, and there are many options for employment.

Q. Is a career in MSC physics a worthwhile one?

A. Graduates with an M.Sc. in Physics are highly sought after in the industries of aerospace and defence, automobiles, information technology and software, railways, nuclear and renewable energy, oil and gas, electronics and telecommunications, and manufacturing.  

Q. Which area of physics is more expansive?

A. The field of nuclear physics has the broadest application. Students who possess in-depth knowledge have a wide range of professional options to select from, including those of instructor, lab supervisor, researcher, etc.  

Q. What is ahead for physics BSc graduates?

A. Graduates of the BSc Physics programme can select from a variety of career roles, including academic counsellor, quality control manager, research associate, statistician, technician, and data analyst.

Q. How do I launch a physics career?

A. A degree in physics, applied physics, or a closely related field of science or engineering is required. You could additionally require a postgraduate degree in the relevant field, such as a master's or PhD. You might be allowed to enrol in a one-year physics foundation course if you don't meet the entry requirements for a physics degree.

Popular Exams

Following are the top exams for Physics. Students interested in pursuing a career on Physics, generally take these important exams.You can also download the exam guide to get more insights.

Feb '25 - Apr '25

CUET 2025 Application Process

TENTATIVE

Apr '25

CUET UG 2025 Application Form Correction

TENTATIVE

10 Feb ' 25 - 12 Feb ' 25

CUET PG 2025 Application Correction Window

Mar '25

CUET PG 2025 Advance City Intimation Slip

TENTATIVE

3 Mar ' 25 - 15 Apr ' 25

IISER Aptitude Test 2025 Registration Start Date

21 Apr ' 25 - 22 Apr ' 25

IISER Aptitude Test 2025 Correction Window

4 Feb ' 25

ICAR AIEEA PG 2024 Counselling Round 4: Seat Acce...

8 Feb ' 25 - 11 Feb ' 25

ICAR AIEEA PG 2024 Counselling Mop-Up: Registrat...

Popular Physics Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Physics Colleges in India. Learn more about these Physics colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
2 Courses
3 K - 6.66 K
8 - 9 LPA

#203 QS World University Rankings

2 Courses
15.6 K - 23.4 K
6 - 9.25 LPA

#188 QS World University Rankings

3 Courses
480 - 11.19 K
5.5 - 16 LPA

#94 QS World University Rankings

2 Courses
51.8 K - 88.41 K
9.24 - 9.5 LPA

#1 NIRF

2 Courses
432 - 540
7 LPA

#12 NIRF

1 Course
432
9.5 LPA

#110 QS World University Rankings

Popular Private Physics Colleges in India

1.68 L - 3.84 L
4.0

#20 NIRF

Physics Applications open. Apply Now

90 K - 2.8 L

Physics Applications open. Apply Now

40 K - 2.7 L
1.6 L - 3.24 L
3.0
2.7 L
1.46 L
8.48 LPA

Physics Applications open. Apply Now

Popular Physics UG Courses

Following are the most popular Physics UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Physics PG Courses

Following are the most popular Physics PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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UG entrance exam for PCB students are NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test), which is primarily for medical courses like MBBS, the other exam can be  Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for various science-related courses at central universities, the IISER Entrance Exam (IAT) for admissio

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Rashmi Singh

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Yes, you can choose Home Science as a domain subject for your B.Sc. (Pass) programme at Delhi University (DU) instead of Physics. According to the eligibility criteria for the B.Sc. (Pass) Home Science program, candidates must appear in the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) and select their dom

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ABHINAV SRIVASTAVA

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Dear Just Tobeprecise,

In the Maharashtra HSC (Class 12) board exams, the Physics and Chemistry papers are common for both the PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) and PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) streams. However, the English paper is a compulsory subject for all students, regardless of thei

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Ankit kumar

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Arshid Ahmad Malik

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According to available information, around 14 colleges in India offer a BTech in Engineering Physics. Most of these colleges are government-owned institutions. 

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Arshid Ahmad Malik

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Arshid Ahmad Malik

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Answered 2 weeks ago

Hello I hope you are doing fine 

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Muskan Yadav

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Vidhi Jain

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You are eligible for admission to the BTech in Engineering Physics course after completing your Class 12 in the Science background with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) subjects and securing at least 50 to 60% marks. Some of the universities may have their own eligibility requirements, for

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Vidhi Jain

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There is no such age limit set by most of the well-known BTech Engineering Physics colleges in India for pursuing this course. But, mostly, the students who take admission to the BTech Engineering Physics programme are 18 to 25 years old at the time of admission.

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Vidhi Jain

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The BTech Engineering Physics degree course is a 4-year programme available at some of the best colleges in India. The course deals with topics such as electromagnetism, materials science, quantum mechanics, analog electronics, computational methods, microprocessor and microcontroller, etc.

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Vidhi Jain

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Krishnendu Lama

Beginner-Level 3

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While it isn't a compulsion to opt for MSc programs, experts do recommend spending a few extra bucks and pursue a Master's program. It has been observed that the candidates who graduate in a master's programme are known to have a wider range of opportunities as compared to others and earn higher fig

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Aadit Singh Uppal

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Salaries offered to BSc candidates vary and also increase over the time with experience and skills. Candidates can earn even INR 15 LPA over the years and the figures continue to grow with the rise in demand of skilled professionals. It all depends on the value you provide and how much of an asset y

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Aadit Singh Uppal

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Answered 2 weeks ago

Yes, there are various IITs in India which offer BSc in Physics such as IIT Roorkee, IIT Dharwad, IIT Kanpur etc. For enrolling in to these colleges, you need to qualify for JEE MAINS and ADVANCED exams and secure a minimum of 75% aggregate marks in their class 12. Students who wish to enrol into th

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Aadit Singh Uppal

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It depends on the university you wish to enrol. The general criteria for admission includes 50-60% aggregate in your class 12. Also, many universities offer admission on entrance basis so you can try preparing for the entrance exams of the university you wish to enrol. Best of Luck!

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Aadit Singh Uppal

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The documents can vary depending on the university you wish to enroll and whether you are getting an admission on the basis of entrance exam result or on merit basis. Howver, some common and essential documents include Adhaar card, Pan Card, Passport Size Photos and marksheets of your 10+2.

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Aadit Singh Uppal

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There is no age limit as such prescribed for the BSc Physics program. You need to clear your class 12 in PCM/B as core subjects and secure a minimum aggregate of 50%. Some universities also require entrance exams of which you need to clear the cutoff score.

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Aadit Singh Uppal

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Answered 2 weeks ago

There are several reasons why it is worth pursuing a BSc Physics course. Candidates can find some reasons below:

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  • Career Scope: BSc Physics gra

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Aadit Singh Uppal

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BSc Physics is a 3-year undergraduate degree program, that consists primarily of theory and experimental courses in Physics with a small number of interdisciplinary courses from Computer Science, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The BSc Physics course aims to lay a strong foundation in classical and mode

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Aadit Singh Uppal

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BHU offers admission to MSc courses. Based on BHU cutoff 2024, the MSc cutoff ranged between 387 and 422 for the General AI category candidates. Considering the IIT Jam last-round cutoff for General AI category candidates. Yes, it is possible to get into BHU with a 350 for MSc in Physics course. Che

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Mohit Singh

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CBSE will conduct the CBSE Class 12 Physics exams 2025 on February 21, 2025. You can click on CBSE 12th date sheet 2025 to check the Class 12 exam dates for all subjects. 

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M.Sc. Physics at IITs

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Satyaban Kuila

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Yes, Physics and Mathematics are generally compulsory for admission to most technical aircraft-related courses, such as Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, and Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME). 

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Mamona Jain

Contributor-Level 7

Answered a month ago

Hi Sevi,

For CUET (Common University Entrance Test) 2025, the domain subjects of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics are available in both English and Hindi. You can choose your preferred language while filling out the application form.

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Ankit kumar

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The syllabus for the entrance exam of M.Sc. Radiological Physics at Guwahati University generally includes the following topics:

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