Applied Math Undergrad: Best Grad Degree for Sci/Industrial Research

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the best graduate degree options for an undergraduate majoring in Computational and Applied Math with a minor in physics, specifically for careers in scientific or industrial research. Participants explore pathways and requirements for transitioning into graduate programs in physics or engineering.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses interest in pursuing a PhD in physics or a related science after majoring in Computational and Applied Math.
  • Another participant suggests that for industrial research, a degree in an engineering discipline such as electrical, materials, or mechanical engineering may be more appropriate, potentially requiring a master's degree.
  • A participant questions the difficulty of gaining admission to a physics graduate program with a background in Computational and Applied Math, noting prior summer jobs in physics labs as relevant experience.
  • It is proposed that taking upper-level physics courses and performing well on the Physics GRE, along with obtaining strong letters of recommendation, could facilitate the transition to a physics PhD program.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple views on the best path for graduate education, with some advocating for a PhD in physics and others suggesting engineering degrees. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal approach and the specific challenges faced by students transitioning from applied math to physics or engineering.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions about the relevance of prior experience in physics labs and the importance of specific coursework and standardized tests for graduate program admissions. The discussion does not clarify the exact requirements or challenges of transitioning between disciplines.

Who May Find This Useful

Undergraduate students in Computational and Applied Math or related fields considering graduate studies in physics or engineering, as well as those interested in scientific or industrial research careers.

SuchaNatural
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I think I want to major in Computational and Applied Math with a physics minor. I'm interested in pursuing a career in scientific or industrial research. What kind of grad degree would be best and if not in applied math how does one make the transition? Thanks!
 
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SuchaNatural said:
scientific

You'd need a PhD in physics or whichever science you are most interested in.

SuchaNatural said:
industrial research
You should probably get a degree in an engineering discipline like electrical/materials/mechanical engineering. A master's would probably be necessary.
 
Hercuflea said:
You'd need a PhD in physics or whichever science you are most interested in.You should probably get a degree in an engineering discipline like electrical/materials/mechanical engineering. A master's would probably be necessary.
Thanks- would you know how difficult it is to get into a grad program for physics for a computational and applied math major like myself? I've done a few summer jobs in physics labs before if that helps.
 
You should read the sticky thread on here about becoming a physics phd if your degree is in something else. It shouldn't be too hard if you take upper level physics courses and do well on the Physics GRE, in addition to getting letters of recommendation from your summer research advisors.
 

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