My son has a degree in physics and is presently a teacher. He is wanting to explore other options. What else can he do with a degree (bachelors) in physics?

I'm a bit floored that a parent is asking this for a grown child. I would have thought that all through college, a student of physics talks to professors about such things as careers and specializations. I'm not sure that there are any other jobs besides teaching. Possibly in the fracking industry, even though that's mostly about geology and chemistry? If he's passionate about physics, he should get a PhD.

Isn't that kind of like saying you simply don't have an answer?

I would be "a bit floored" if a parent of any child was as disinterested as you seem to think we should be. At any rate, I do thank you for your insight.

I think it's wonderful that you are interested and supportive. I think it's potentially harmful for a parent to be doing the work for a grown child. I think your leap to the conclusion that I would let him do his own research means you are 'disinterested.'

I think a physicist needs a PhD, period. But I think that's a decision that should come totally from within him.

Re careers: to be blunt, I've known PhD theoretical physicists from MIT who said that without a concentration in a few fields, they couldn't get jobs except in teaching. One in a thousand get to work at CERN or such places.

Does he want to get away from physics entirely, or add to that with another degree or training in something? If it's the latter, he might want to find out about certifications and further education available from the local community college or area schools. Physical therapy involves physics, for instance, but for that and for most other jobs, he will need another degree or specific training. A bachelor's just doesn't take someone too far nowadays -- depending on where he wants to go. He really needs to talk with a career counselor/coach to find out options and if he needs more schooling.

Joy, he is searching. I'm just trying to add my two cents worth. I do understand your point of view.

He realizes he is probably looking at going back to school. The question is this: Should he continue to pursue physics, or work towards something else such as engineering?

Where is his heart's desire?

He can go into sells, or some management.. The question really is, what does he like, what does he want to do. If his passion is music, or outdoors. Or is he willing to do perhaps onlline or part time work going back to University for a masters or for a 2nd degree.

What Jobs Can I Get with a Physics Major? | eHow

10 Jobs Involving Physics | eHow

Thanks for all the replies. I'll pass the info along.