Advice on type of physics degree to do

They can help you choose the best degree for your situation.<<Emphasis added>>In summary, the best degree to take for someone with the goals described in the original post is the degree in physics offered by The Open University.
  • #1
60
17
hi all,
Fairly old student here looking to go back and follow my life long dream of geting into physics. My goal is to eventually move into the study of theoretical physics, cosmology, that type of the stuff. So the things I am really interested in are Theory of Relativity, string theory, quantum mechanics etc, and these are the fields I'd like to research and move into if I ever get that far ;-)

On that note, there are 3 degrees I am considering here, which of these would you say is the best to take based on my comments above? (scroll down on each page to where it says "Couse Details")


https://www.openuniversity.edu/courses/qualifications/r51#course-details
https://www.openuniversity.edu/courses/qualifications/q64-phy
https://www.openuniversity.edu/courses/qualifications/q64-ast
 
  • Like
Likes Delta2
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
mucker said:
On that note, there are 3 degrees I am considering here, which of these would you say is the best to take based on my comments above? (scroll down on each page to where it says "Couse Details")
I only looked through the first one so far. I may have missed it, but I don't see the other courses that you need for undergraduate physics studies -- where are the math courses, for example? It's pretty hard to study physics without learning a lot of math first/during...
 
  • #3
berkeman said:
I only looked through the first one so far. I may have missed it, but I don't see the other courses that you need for undergraduate physics studies -- where are the math courses, for example? It's pretty hard to study physics without learning a lot of math first/during...
All three programs have the same embedded math courses:

Stage 1: Essential Math 1, Required; Essential Math 2, Elective

Stage 2: Math Methods, Required

Stage 3: Math Methods and Fluid Mechanics, Elective
 
  • Like
Likes berkeman
  • #4
OP: You've given no details of your educational background.

ETA: Have you contacted staff at The Open University for guidance? Presumably, they would be the most familiar with the differences among the programs, and be in the best position to guide you to the best choice.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes PeroK
  • #5
CrysPhys said:
All three programs have the same embedded math courses:
Oh shoot, you're right; I missed that. Thanks!
 
  • #6
CrysPhys said:
OP: You've given no details of your educational background.
I only have a high school background. I was in the top class/set for maths and science but pretty poor at English. I got good grades in everything but didn't get the "pass" mark for english. In the UK you need pass marks on them all to go to the next tier. At the time I didn't care and went down a different path. I did not do any calculus, which I believe will be the biggest issue for me studying Physics. However, the "Essential Maths" which part of the course teaches this.

CrysPhys said:
ETA: Have you contacted staff at The Open University for guidance? Presumably, they would be the most familiar with the differences among the programs, and be in the best position to guide you to the best choice.
There is a section called "pre-reqs" which says something like "Am i ready for this course?" and throws some tests at you. I passed them all, so it would seem I should be ok with these degrees.

My question wasn't whether I could pass them anyway, but which would be best to do, to set me up going into the the areas of expertise I listed above.

thanks for all your help so far
 
  • #7
mucker said:
My question wasn't whether I could pass them anyway, but which would be best to do, to set me up going into the the areas of expertise I listed above.
<<Emphasis added>> Yes, for this purpose, I would recommend you discuss your goals with the staff at The Open University.
 
  • Like
Likes mucker

1. What are the different types of physics degrees available?

There are typically three main types of physics degrees: Bachelor of Science (BSc), Master of Science (MSc), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). However, there may also be variations within these degrees, such as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Physics or a Master of Engineering (MEng) in Physics.

2. What is the difference between a BSc and an MSc in physics?

A BSc in physics is typically an undergraduate degree that provides a broad foundation in physics principles and theories. An MSc in physics is a graduate degree that allows for more specialized study and research in a specific area of physics.

3. Is it necessary to have a PhD in physics to work in the field?

No, it is not necessary to have a PhD in physics to work in the field. Many entry-level positions in physics require only a bachelor's or master's degree. However, a PhD may be necessary for higher-level research positions or teaching at the university level.

4. Should I choose a specific area of physics to specialize in for my degree?

It is not necessary to choose a specific area of physics to specialize in for your degree, especially at the undergraduate level. It is recommended to take a variety of courses to gain a broad understanding of the field before deciding on a specific area for graduate studies.

5. Will my choice of physics degree affect my job prospects?

Your choice of physics degree may affect your job prospects to some extent. For example, a PhD in physics may open up more opportunities for research positions, while a bachelor's degree may be more suitable for entry-level jobs in the industry. It is important to consider your career goals and research the requirements for your desired job when choosing a degree.

Suggested for: Advice on type of physics degree to do

Replies
3
Views
107
Replies
15
Views
3K
Replies
47
Views
4K
Replies
3
Views
142
Replies
6
Views
2K
Back
Top