Applied physics is the study of physics specifically as it pertains to developing and growing a wide range of practical uses in society through research and technology. Students may focus on a specific industry that uses this science, including aerospace, satellites, mobile telecommunications, lasers, microchips, fiber optics, semiconductors and information technology.

An Associate of Arts degree is the stepping-stone for many students. After focusing on a field of study for two years at a vocational, technical, or community college, students can go onto finding better careers or earning a higher degree.