Taking Graduate level physics classes as an undergraduate

[carpodbt]

Starting next semester, I will be taking part in a year long, accelerated math program, which if I finish, will allow me to get a master's degree in place of a bachelor's. My primary major is physics though, and I have been considering the possibility of substituting some of my required classes with graduate level classes instead.

I was wondering how much work would be necessary to do this or if it is even at all feasible.
If the only difference between the undergraduate and graduate level classes are just the mathematical rigor, I think I would be able to manage it. If there is a lot of prerequisite knowledge though, the option wouldn't really seem to be on the table.

I've heard of people graduating with a degree in math and then switching to physics in grad school, so I would think it is at least possible to go into the graduate classes without any prior knowledge, but I figure you guys have better advice than anecdotes would provide

 

[deRham]

The problem is typically graduate courses are inhabited by graduate students, who quite frankly may know tons and tons more than you do as an undergraduate. It's quite possible the choice of course text and the description of the course may not accurately represent the level the professor presents stuff at ultimately. Especially if it's a small class, if a bunch of grad students kind of know a ton, then the prof can do whatever he wants in some cases, so it can be tough.

I'd leave a lot more time for those classes if you want to learn it properly. Depending on your school, it may be very doable.

 

[flemmyd]

theres a post on this part of the forum where someone asks for graduate schools that don't use jackson's textbook for e&m. if you don't know, jackson is the standard graduate level textbook e&m and the problems are HARD. For comparison, a standard undergrad e&m text is by griffiths.

Anyway, the point the posters (some of whom i presume have phds in physics) was that while the concepts are "similar", the problems themselves are FAR different in terms of mathematical ability. Keep in mind, one of the biggest problems students (of all levels) have in the physical sciences is mathematical background. It's difficult enough to learn physics, but if you have to learn math at the same time... tough!

of course, you may not have that problem if you have a strong background in math.

here's a relevant post to help you.
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=2817364&postcount=25

 

[twofish-quant]

I was wondering how much work would be necessary to do this or if it is even at all feasible.

If you can, get the syllabus and the problem sets for the course and just see how well you think you will do. If you have the math background and the time, I think it's a great thing to do. One thing that you do have to be aware of is that you may find it difficult to transfer credit from one school to the other, but in the worst case, you just retake the class at the new school.

I've heard of people graduating with a degree in math and then switching to physics in grad school, so I would think it is at least possible to go into the graduate classes without any prior knowledge, but I figure you guys have better advice than anecdotes would provide

That's probably not a good analogy.

What often happens is that if someone switches majors, they have to take a few upper level undergraduate classes at the new department.

 

[rezeew]

I would say that taking graduate level physics classes as an undergraduate is a great opportunity to challenge yourself and deepen your understanding of the subject. However, it is important to carefully consider the workload and prerequisites before making any decisions.

Firstly, it is important to note that graduate level classes are designed for students who already have a strong foundation in the subject. These classes are typically more rigorous and demanding than undergraduate classes, and may require a significant amount of independent study and research. It is important to have a solid understanding of the prerequisite knowledge before enrolling in a graduate level class, as it will be assumed that you have this background knowledge.

If you are considering substituting some of your required undergraduate classes with graduate level classes, I would recommend consulting with your academic advisor or professors to ensure that you are making a well-informed decision. They can provide guidance on the feasibility and potential challenges of taking on graduate level classes as an undergraduate.

Additionally, it is important to consider the potential impact on your overall academic workload and schedule. Taking on too many graduate level classes at once may be overwhelming and could potentially affect your performance in other classes. It is important to strike a balance and make sure that you are able to manage your workload effectively.

In terms of transitioning from a math degree to physics in graduate school, it is certainly possible but it may require additional preparation and coursework. Again, consulting with your academic advisor or professors would be beneficial in determining the best path for you.

In summary, taking graduate level physics classes as an undergraduate is a great opportunity, but it is important to carefully consider the workload and prerequisites before making any decisions. Consulting with academic advisors and professors can provide valuable insight and guidance in making the best decision for your academic journey.