Programs Starting a Physics PhD years after undergraduate degree?

AI Thread Summary
Graduating with a Physics degree and planning to delay pursuing a PhD for 10-15 years raises concerns about the impact of this gap on academic readiness and the potential for ageism in academia. A significant point made is that without regular application of knowledge, much of the education may be forgotten within six months. The discussion highlights the uncertainty of future priorities, such as family commitments, which could affect the ability to pursue further education. The possibility of part-time PhD programs is mentioned, particularly in the UK, suggesting that there are flexible options available for those who wish to continue their education later in life.
imogg
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I’m graduating with a Physics degree next year but for various reasons I cannot go straight to grad school and get a PhD. I probably won’t be back to school for some time (I’m projecting 10-15 years). Will it be hard to start a Physics PhD after so long? Is there ageism in academia?

Thanks
 
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You will be surprised at how much of your education you will forget after 6 months if you don't keep applying it.

You don't say what you will be doing during these 10-15 years. This is a long time between bouts of school; who knows what your priorities will be that far into the future? If you acquire a family during that time, at the end of your fallow period, it will be time to plan your children's education rather than extending your own.
 

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