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NOC 21100 is the Canadian National Occupational Classification code for Physicists and astronomers. It is classified TEER 1 — Usually require a university degree, which meets the skill requirement for Express Entry. An officer decides whether you can claim this code by comparing the duties written in your reference letter against the official main duties below — not by your job title.
Classification
Natural & applied sciences
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Definition
Physicists conduct theoretical and applied research to extend knowledge of natural phenomena and to develop new processes and devices in fields such as electronics, communications, power generation and distribution, aerodynamics, optics and lasers, remote sensing, biotechnology, medicine and health. They are employed by electronic, electrical and aerospace manufacturing companies, telecommunications companies, power utilities, university and government research laboratories, hospitals and by a wide range of other processing, manufacturing, and research and consulting firms. Astronomers conduct observational and theoretical research to extend knowledge of the universe. They are employed by government and universities.
Main duties
Example job titles
Overview
NOC 21100 (Physicists and astronomers) is classified as a TEER 1 occupation under Canada's National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system. Professionals in this group conduct theoretical and applied research to extend scientific knowledge in physics and astronomy, or apply physical principles to practical industrial, medical, and technological challenges. They are typically employed by universities, government research laboratories, hospitals, and private sector research and development firms. A master's or doctoral degree in physics, astrophysics, or a closely related discipline is standard for employment in these roles.
As highly skilled professionals, individuals qualifying under NOC 21100 are eligible for federal immigration streams managed through Canada's Express Entry system, notably the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP). They may also find opportunities through various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that target skilled scientific talent. Because this occupation falls under the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) category, eligible candidates may also benefit from targeted category-based Express Entry draws prioritized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Typical duties for this code include designing and conducting experimental and theoretical research, analyzing scientific data, publishing papers, and developing specialized industrial or scientific technologies.
Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.
Yes — Physicists and astronomers is TEER 1, and TEER 0–3 occupations meet the skill-level requirement for Express Entry programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class. Full eligibility also depends on your work experience, language results and other program criteria.
Physicists and astronomers is classified as TEER 1 — Usually require a university degree. Always confirm the exact employment requirements on the official NOC profile before relying on them.
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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.