Skills, Education and Experience

• Physicists usually require a master’s or doctoral degree in a field of physics, engineering physics, or in a related discipline.
• A PhD is typically required for physicists in research and development positions. Those with master’s degrees may find work in physics related research and development positions in private industry.

Sources: Career Cruising & WorkBC

Licensing Requirements for Physicists

The profession of physicist is not regulated in British Columbia and employment qualification requirements are set by individual employers.

However, professional members of the Canadian Association of Physicists (CAP) can apply for Professional Physicist certification.

Designation as a Professional Physicist allows you to use the letters “P.Phys.” to show that you possess the qualities and experience required to make judgement calls with respect to scientific matters in your particular field.  Applicants must:

• be of good character and at least 18 years of age
• be a CAP member (and maintain membership while licensed)
• meet education standards established by the CAP
• meet physics experience requirements established by the CAP (minimum of three years of recent physics-related work experience after graduation)
• agree to uphold CAP’s Code of Ethics for holders of the Professional Physicist designation
• pass (unless exempted) the Professional Practice Examination (PPE)

For information about becoming a member of the CAP or for qualifying for P. Phys certification, contact the Association at: