How do Physics students navigate their career development?

Balancing employability skills development with core content is challenging for content‑heavy degrees like Physics but can be supported through adapted teaching methods and structured employability activities such as careers fairs, societies, and industrial placements. This study draws on quantitative and open‑text analysis of survey responses from 185 physics students across five UK universities to evaluate the collaborative initiative called the White Rose Industrial Physics Academy (WRIPA). Many students believed a Physics degree would enhance their career prospects and could clearly identify skills gained, particularly in problem‑solving, programming, and data analysis. Those completing industrial placements or internships reported fewer concerns about their preparedness for employment, suggesting both academic progression and work experience strengthen confidence in future careers. Nonetheless, students continued to face barriers when engaging with employers, frequently citing limited time, lack of feedback, and frustration during job applications.