MS Grad Asks: Am I Mad for Wanting a Physics Degree?

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The discussion centers on the idea of pursuing a Master's in Physics after graduating with a Master's in Electronic Engineering. The original poster expresses a desire to deepen their understanding of physics through the Feynman lectures while working. Responses highlight that while reading Feynman is enjoyable and can spark interest in physics, it is insufficient for gaining the foundational knowledge required for a graduate program. Participants emphasize the necessity of completing undergraduate physics courses before enrolling in a Master's program. They also note that balancing work and graduate studies can be challenging, often extending the duration of the program. The conversation reflects a mix of perspectives on personal study habits and the commitment needed to succeed in physics, underscoring the importance of a strong work ethic and genuine interest in the subject.
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I'm graduating in Electronic Engineering (MS).
I'm thinking about learning Physics very well ...(to study all the Feynman lectures).. and then...
enroll to MS Physics and get the physics degree while I'm working...
Am I Mad?

and... What kind of people are you? Do you read Physics Lectures before going to bed?
 
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While I can't vouch for your ability to go to school while working, I can say that I don't think reading Feynman before going to bed is mad. He writes/speaks in such a way that even people with a non-interest in physics can enjoy.
 
You're not going to convince a graduate program you learned 4 years of undergraduate physics by listening to a few lectures, and for good reason. You need to take the courses you're missing before enrolling in a MS program. Doing an MS while working a job can take 4 years or more to complete, and many programs won't let you attempt it. No, I don't do physics right before I go to bed. I don't find it all that relaxing.
 
"Very mad". Bad idea. You wouldn't read "The Art of Electronics" before bed and then try to go to electrical engineering grad school, would you? I would most certainly not do the same for physics.

As to what kind of people we are; all sorts. Some of us like to read textbooks in our spare time, some of us prefer to read novels. Pretty much the only thing you need to succeed in physics is a good work ethic, interest, and lots of time. Myself, I prefer to build cupola furnaces and rip apart lock-in amplifiers on the weekends but I do enjoy the Feynman lectures quite a bit :)
 
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Certainly, I'm not convinced that reading feynman it's enough to became a physicist...
but it's a good start!
I'm hungry for knowledge...YUM!
 
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