A physics degree from Royal Holloway develops far more than subject expertise. Our courses are structured to build strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and practical experience that prepares students for diverse and competitive career paths.
Over 90% of our graduates are either in employment or further study within six months of completing their degree. Those in employment pursue careers across a wide range of industries and professional roles.
Where our graduates work
Our alumni and recent graduates work in a wide variety of roles including physicists, aeronautical engineers, science and engineering technicians, scientific researchers, technical sales, finance and investment analysts, managements consultants, software designers and engineers, owner of patent law firm, tokamak engineer, and company CEOs, just to name just a few.
Career pathways for physicists
Physics is a gateway to a wide range of fields and industries thanks to the analytical, computational and conceptual skills that students develop throughout their studies. The study of physics develops expertise in complex data analysis, critical thinking, problem solving, scientific communication skills, all of which are highly valued by employers across multiple sectors.
Some of the typical career destinations for physics graduates, according to The Careers Group, include:
- academic and industrial research,
- medical physics,
- security and defence,
- space technologies,
- teaching and education,
- engineering,
- radiation protection,
- sustainable energy,
- geophysics,
- meteorology,
- science communication,
- plasma physics,
- finance,
- law, and
- telecommunications.
These examples reflect the wide applicability of physics training across both traditional and emerging fields. You can also check the Institute of Physics for accurate and up-to-date careers information and resources.
Skills and employability support
Throughout a physics degree at Royal Holloway, students build a wide range of transferable skills and receive support to help them prepare for graduate jobs. This includes careers advice, alumni-led events, and mentoring opportunities. The department has strong links with former students, many of whom share their experiences and what employers look for in physics graduates.
Employability is embedded in the curriculum, particularly in Years 2 and 3 through skills modules, student projects and opportunities for career development, helping students gain useful experience and stand out when applying for jobs. Students also benefit from connections with international research labs, partner universities, and companies, as well as support from the university’s Careers Centre.
The student-run Royal Holloway Physics Society (PhySoc) also hosts social events and guest talks from people working in science and industry. This helps students expand their professional networks and engage with sectors beyond academia.
All degree programmes are accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), which means all graduates are eligible for IOP membership and can work towards professional registration as a Registered Scientist (RSci) or Chartered Physicist (CPhys).
Placement opportunities with SEPnet
We are proud members of SEPnet (the South East Physics Network), which offers students hands-on, practical experience through placement and research opportunities. SEPnet promotes placement opportunities to students in their second and third year, giving them access to industry experience across the UK. Our students also have the option to gain research experience with internal placement opportunities, working alongside academics, researchers, and scientists within the Department.
Jana Checkley, SEPnet’s Employment Engagement Advisor, is based within the Department of Physics and provides students advice with careers guidance and employer-facing events.
Your career starts here
Graduates from Royal Holloway’s Physics programmes leave not only with a strong foundation in physics, but with the confidence and adaptability to shape their own careers. Whether they pursue scientific research, education, industry, finance, or roles at the intersection of disciplines, they are equipped to contribute effectively and think critically in a rapidly evolving professional landscape. A physics degree from Royal Holloway prepares students not just for their first job, but for a lifetime of learning and impact.
