A Masters in Physics after a Bachelor's in Enginnering

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SUMMARY

A student from BITS Pilani, currently pursuing a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, is seeking advice on transitioning to a Master's in Physics. With a GPA of 7.45, the student has demonstrated interest in Physics through coursework in Theory of Relativity and plans to take additional courses in Quantum Physics and Chaos. The student intends to take the TIFR exam and apply to universities in the US, Canada, and Germany, while considering research experience at institutions like ISRO or BARC to enhance admission prospects. Recommendations suggest applying directly to PhD programs rather than Master's programs to avoid disadvantages.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the TIFR exam and its significance for Physics graduate admissions.
  • Familiarity with the Advanced GRE and Physics GRE (PGRE) as metrics for graduate school applications.
  • Knowledge of research institutions in India, such as ISRO and BARC, and their relevance to Physics careers.
  • Awareness of graduate program structures, particularly the differences between Master's and PhD programs in Physics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the TIFR exam format and preparation strategies.
  • Explore the requirements and benefits of the Advanced GRE and PGRE for Physics graduate applications.
  • Investigate potential research assistantship opportunities at ISRO or BARC to strengthen graduate school applications.
  • Learn about the application processes for PhD programs in Physics at universities in the US, Canada, and Germany.
USEFUL FOR

Students transitioning from engineering to Physics, prospective graduate students in Physics, and individuals seeking to enhance their academic profiles for competitive admissions.

A1D1S
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Hello all,

This is my first and probably the most important post, I am a 3rd year student of Mechanical Engineering at BITS Pilani, India. However, my primary interests lie in Physics, please do not ask why my major is in Engineering then, it is a long story.

I will make my current position clear, I have a GPA of 7.45 on 10 which is a bit low I know, I did a course Theory of Relativity last semester and fared well in it, I am now pursuing a study project on the same. I plan to take an experimental project next semester along with an elective on Chaos.

Our college has an optional attendance policy, owing to which I attend Physics classes, I am currently attending Mathematical Methods and Quantum Physics. I will attend EMT and Quantum 2 next semester, of course it won't show on my final transcript.

The Physics department knows me well and I can get decent recommendations.

I plan on writing the TIFR exam in India and applying to some universities in US, Canada and Germany.
Could anyone give me advice on my odds of admission with some financial aid, I am very sure I will pursue a PhD as well. Would working at a scientific institution like ISRO or BARC , or maybe a research assistant somewhere increase my odds, for I really do not mind working an year or 2 after graduation. Would the AGRE exam help ? It seems manageable.

In case someone has gone through something similar or met people in the graduate department from engineering backgrounds please help.
I am really in quite a confused state, kindly help.
 
Last edited:
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Here is one suggestion:
Don't apply to an institution for a master's program in Physics if there is a PhD program there---apply to the PhD program... you get your master's degree along the way. (In my opinion, applying to the master's program there would put you at a disadvantage.)
 
Thanks for the reply robphy, I was thinking on similar lines.
Would you mind answering some of the other questions or maybe direct me to someone who could ?
 
Is there an equivalent to the physics GRE in India? That's really what physics graduate schools in the US use as a metric.
 
lisab I can give the Advanced GRE exam or the PGRE from a centre in India
 

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