Can I do theoretical physics in an astrophysics candidates, masters?

AI Thread Summary
Choosing between an astronomy/astrophysics candidate course and a theoretical physics degree involves weighing the broader appeal of astrophysics against the specialized focus of theoretical physics. Astrophysics allows for exploration of cosmic phenomena, including topics like the Big Bang and the Steady-State theory, while also integrating quantum mechanics into research. There is curiosity about whether undergraduates can incorporate quantum mechanics into astrophysics papers, suggesting a desire for interdisciplinary work. Job prospects in astrophysics appear promising, with specific roles emerging that leverage this broader educational background. Both fields require similar educational levels, but the connection between quantum mechanics and cosmic phenomena highlights the importance of understanding how these theories interact within the universe.
rocket123456
Messages
67
Reaction score
0
What do I lose from an astronomy/astrophysics candidates course, contrasted with a theoretical physics degree?

Astrophysics is broader, and in that sense more appealing. However, I wonder if I am allowed to write about quantum mechanics as an undergraduate, in a theoretical astrophysics paper? Do I need to infer it in a cosmic - all encompassing "astronomical way", to make it a legitimate astrophysics paper?

My other interests being the big bang-theory vs (Quasi) Steady-state theory, and just physics overall.

The eventual job prospects being an astrophysicist seems much more promising these days as well, in some very specific job descriptions. Though both have very similar level of education.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
In other words: Astrophysics deals(among other things) with the physics of the universe. Quantum mechanical theories are, as any other physical theory, connected to the function of the universe - and most certainly leave interesting implications regarding the gravitational discrepencys between the microscopic and macroscopic parts of the world, if the main stream interpretations are true.
 
Last edited:
Bit Britain-specific but I was wondering, what's the best path to take for A-Levels out of the following (I know Y10 seems a bit early to be thinking about A-levels, but my choice will impact what I do this year/ in y11) I (almost) definitely want to do physics at University - so keep that in mind... The subjects that I'm almost definitely going to take are Maths, Further Maths and Physics, and I'm taking a fast track programme which means that I'll be taking AS computer science at the end...
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...
I graduated with a BSc in Physics in 2020. Since there were limited opportunities in my country (mostly teaching), I decided to improve my programming skills and began working in IT, first as a software engineer and later as a quality assurance engineer, where I’ve now spent about 3 years. While this career path has provided financial stability, I’ve realized that my excitement and passion aren’t really there, unlike what I felt when studying or doing research in physics. Working in IT...
Back
Top