Graduate School Advice Needed: Where to Apply with my stats & backup schools

[nikkilou]

Graduate School Advice Needed: Where to Apply with my stats & "backup" schools

As an undergraduate I've studied engineering physics. It seems in general that graduate students in engineering have a lower gpa than those in physics or math. I have since decided I would like to do physics research and will be applying to physics graduate programs in the next month. While I know my top choices (CU-Boulder and UIUC) I am still investigating some more realistic schools and would like input. If anyone knows of schools I should consider as backups or has gotten into schools and has statistics similar to mine please let me know. Thanks.

Undergraduate Institute: Small State School known for engineering
Major: Engineering Physics
Minor: Chemistry
Overall GPA: 3.40
GPA in last year: 3.63
Research: 1 REU in Bioengineering
Other work: 9 month position as mechanical engineer, tutor
Extras: 3 season Student athlete, SPS, EWB

 

[TonyG]

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on your decision to pursue physics research and your top choices of CU-Boulder and UIUC. Those are both excellent programs with strong research opportunities.

In terms of backup schools, I would recommend looking into the following options:

1. University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB): This school has a strong physics program and is known for its research in condensed matter physics. Your background in engineering could be a valuable asset in this field.

2. University of Maryland, College Park: Another top physics program with a focus on condensed matter physics and strong research opportunities. They also have a strong engineering program, so your background could be a good fit here as well.

3. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor: This school has a highly regarded physics program and offers a wide range of research opportunities in areas such as astrophysics, biophysics, and quantum science.

4. University of Colorado, Denver: Another strong physics program with a focus on experimental research. Your experience in bioengineering could be useful in this field.

5. University of Wisconsin, Madison: This school has a well-respected physics program with a variety of research opportunities, including in the fields of biophysics and quantum science.

In addition to these schools, I would also recommend considering some smaller, liberal arts colleges that have strong physics programs and may offer more personalized attention and research opportunities. Some options to look into are Swarthmore College, Williams College, and Amherst College.

I hope this helps in your search for backup schools. Best of luck with your applications!

 

[Mene]

First of all, congratulations on your decision to pursue a career in physics research! It's important to have a well-rounded list of schools to apply to, so it's great that you are seeking advice on potential backup options.

Based on your stats, I would recommend considering schools such as University of Maryland, College Park, University of Minnesota, and Ohio State University. These schools have strong physics programs and may be more realistic options for you. Additionally, you may want to look into smaller, lesser-known schools that may have professors doing research in your specific areas of interest.

It's also important to note that your research experience and extracurricular activities will play a significant role in your application. Make sure to highlight these experiences and how they have prepared you for graduate level research.

Lastly, don't be discouraged if you don't get into your top choices. Graduate school admissions can be competitive, and there are many great programs out there. Remember to keep an open mind and consider all of your options. Best of luck with your applications!