The answer is yes if you’re wondering whether physics is a STEM degree. The “S” in STEM stands for “science,” which includes fields such as natural sciences, physics, biology, and chemistry.
In physics, you will study energy, matter, magnetism, and mechanics. Let’s find out why Physics is considered a STEM major.
Is Physics a Stem Major?
Physics has been the chief STEM pathway for years. This is because it is a foundation for other natural sciences, from chemistry to biology. In addition, physics research has always been a cornerstone of scientific disciplines. Hands-on laboratory experiments help students explore these ideas through practice and experimentation. Additionally, it enables students to use that information in a practical situation.
If you want to learn how to study the natural world and apply your knowledge to solve problems, you could start with a STEM major in Physics!
1. Chief STEM Pathway
Many acknowledge Physics as the chief STEM pathway.
It is the branch of science that is most directly applicable to topics in:
- Math
- Statistics, and
- Scientific Research Methods
In addition to serving as a prerequisite for post-secondary education in science, physics plays a significant role in developing students’ scientific literacy.
For some high school teachers, taking physics lessons helps students refine the capabilities needed to do well on the SAT and ACT. At the same time, college professors claim that taking physics in high school is valuable.
Currently, there is a great demand for employees with physics-related expertise. Physics is one of the STEM majors that allows an individual to comprehend scientific fields more thoroughly.
Learn more: Is Physics hard?
2. Foundation for Quantitative Methods
Physicists claim that Physics is an excellent demonstration of the scientific method and lays the groundwork for quantitative techniques.
In secondary education, these experts are mindful that physics must lead in STEM education. The American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) explicitly supports this.
For them, 9th-grade physics is the framework of the STEM curriculum and the foundational core course for the concept of physics for all students.
On the other hand, a college curriculum might cover the following STEM topics under physics:
- Basic Laws of Mechanics
- Heat and Thermodynamics
- Electricity and Magnetism
- Relativity
- Quantum Mechanics
Generally, physics is the first science to develop in STEM programs and has served as the basis for notions in quantitative systems.
3. Cornerstone of Other Natural Sciences
Physics is the cornerstone of every other science and is fundamental to understanding our emerging technological civilization.
STEM fields of science, technology, engineering, and math are all seen to be developed based on physics.
With a physics major, anyone can pursue a career in a STEM profession, including:
- Research and Development
- Engineering
- Education
- Healthcare
- Finance
- Government
For scientists, science is the source of actual knowledge. It is the foundation of the country’s progress.
And because physics is a part of this classification, it will always serve as the pillar of physical science.
To learn more, you can also see our posts on Biology and Chemistry.
Conclusion
STEM has become increasingly popular as a major, and physics is a big part of STEM.
Ultimately, Physics is a valuable degree for students seeking to prepare for a future in many STEM fields.