Discussion Overview
The discussion centers on the challenges and considerations for gaining admission to a master's program abroad in fields related to physics and astronomy, particularly for someone with a background in aerospace engineering. Participants explore prerequisites, alternative pathways, and the relevance of their current studies to future academic goals.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- One participant expresses concern about their decision to pursue aerospace engineering and seeks advice on gaining admission to a master's program abroad.
- Another participant suggests researching specific master's programs to understand their prerequisites, noting that requirements can vary significantly between universities.
- A participant questions whether strong GRE scores and additional physics coursework could compensate for a lack of a physics or math bachelor's degree when applying to master's programs.
- Some participants discuss the potential benefits of pursuing a physics undergraduate degree instead of an engineering degree if the goal is to transition to graduate studies in astronomy or astrophysics.
- There is a suggestion that an engineering degree might serve as a safety net for job prospects if immediate entry into graduate studies is not possible.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the necessity of a physics or math bachelor's degree for admission to graduate programs, with some believing that alternative qualifications could suffice while others emphasize the importance of a relevant undergraduate background.
Contextual Notes
Participants mention varying prerequisites for master's programs, indicating that specific requirements may depend on the institution and program focus. There is also uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of alternative qualifications in meeting admission criteria.
Who May Find This Useful
Students considering graduate studies in physics, astronomy, or related fields, particularly those with non-traditional academic backgrounds or interests in transitioning from engineering to physics.