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Dynamic Careers in Physics

The study of Physics can be a gateway to a whole world of career possibilities. The skills you learn at FHSU will help you develop innovative solutions to complicated problems in the world of Physics and beyond. Here’s an idea of what you can do once you graduate.

Our alumni have taken positions in the entire gambit of physics-related careers, including:

  • Research assistant for the Air Force at Northrop Grumman
  • Project engineer at Hospira pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Technician with U.S. Heart Care
  • Teachers in schools around the state of Kansas

Several alumni have chosen to deepen their study of physics by going into Ph.D. programs at universities like Texas A & M and the University of Nebraska at Lincoln.

The study of Physics also prepares you for many relevant careers in all fields, which tackle society’s problems.

  • Aerospace Engineer
  • Air Traffic Controller
  • Computer Programmer
  • Environmental Health Specialist
  • Forensic Scientist
  • Genetic Engineer
  • Meteorologist
  • Nuclear Power Plant Project Manager
  • Science Writer
  • Seismologist

For more information about careers for Physics majors, visit the Academic Advising and Career Exploration Center Web site or contact the Department of Physics to speak with a faculty advisor. What change will you envision for the world?

FHSU Physics graduates - out in the world
Justin Zohner (2002)
Research Physicist
San Antonio, TX
In Physics, new discoveries, challenges and opportunities are always just around the next corner. The degree I earned at Fort Hays State was just the starting point. From there, I've studied in a world-class graduate program and gone on to work for some of the leading companies in my field. Learning is a life-long journey. Taking the first step at Fort Hays State University ensured that I was on the pathway to success.


Matt Wood (2007)
Graduate Student
Texas A&M
College Station, TX
My success throughout college is due in large part to the physics department at FHSU. During my undergraduate education I was selected for three different research internships. I spent one summer at Kansas State University setting up a laser that would be used to splice optical fibers. The next summer I traveled to the Center for European Nuclear Research (CERN) outside of Geneva, Switzerland, where I was able to work on the largest physics experiment to date on earth. This past summer I traveled to Newport News, Va., where I worked with the polarized electron beam source group at Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility. The research I conducted there could be beneficial to many smaller polarized electron labs throughout the country. I am now attending graduate school at Texas A & M University working toward a Ph.D. in physics.