Can I Pursue a PhD in Theoretical Physics with a Master's in Applied Physics?

AI Thread Summary
A master's degree in applied physics does not inherently prevent admission to a PhD program in theoretical physics, but the specific content of the master's program can influence opportunities. The distinction between theoretical and applied physics is often misunderstood, as many applied fields, like solid-state or condensed matter physics, involve significant theoretical components. Candidates with an applied physics background may face challenges if their coursework lacks the necessary theoretical foundations, particularly when transitioning to more abstract areas of theoretical physics. While it is possible to pursue a PhD in theoretical physics after an applied physics master's, applicants should ensure they have a strong grasp of theoretical concepts to enhance their chances of acceptance into competitive programs.
zodas
Messages
9
Reaction score
1
I have a very simple and straightforward question.
This has been troubling me for quiet a long time now.

Can i go for a phd in theoretical physics with a masters in applied physics ?
I basically mean to say that:
Will applied physics degree create any kind of hindrance for phd in theoretical physics ?
OR
Do i really need to go only for theoretical physics right from my graduate level...
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Well it depends what areas of each you will have studied and want to study.
 
zodas said:
I have a very simple and straightforward question.
This has been troubling me for quiet a long time now.

Can i go for a phd in theoretical physics with a masters in applied physics ?
I basically mean to say that:
Will applied physics degree create any kind of hindrance for phd in theoretical physics ?
OR
Do i really need to go only for theoretical physics right from my graduate level...

This is a very strange question.

What do you mean by "theoretical physics" and "applied physics"? Would you consider Solid State/Condensed matter physics as 'applied'? If you do, do you think such a field does not have theoretical studies?

As I've written already, a lot of people do not really have a proper understanding of what "theoretical physics" mean.

https://www.physicsforums.com/blog.php?b=3727

Zz.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
ZapperZ said:
This is a very strange question.

What do you mean by "theoretical physics" and "applied physics"? Would you consider Solid State/Condensed matter physics as 'applied'? If you do, do you think such a field does not have theoretical studies?

As I've written already, a lot of people do not really have a proper understanding of what "theoretical physics" mean.

https://www.physicsforums.com/blog.php?b=3727

Zz.

I may be mistaken about this, but from what I understand from the OP's post, there are a number of colleges/universities that offer a specialized MS degree in "applied physics", the specific contents of the degree varying but more often than not focusing on either a combination of experimental physics courses with courses in numerical analysis, electrical engineering, or something along those lines, usually tailored for those intending to work in industry (something not unlike degree programs like engineering physics).

I think what the OP is wondering is whether someone who earns a MS in a program like I described above will still have a decent chance of being accepted into a regular PhD program in physics, or will he/she face disadvantages because of the specialized nature of the MS degree.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Based on what I've heard, after the masters you're somewhat limited. Not at all will you be limited in which specific fields you pursue, but on a general scale (going from computational to string theory etc.), switching would probably not be a good idea/wouldn't be allowed to. There really aren't many "theoretical physicists," to begin with. It's pretty rare.
 
guys i am currently studying in computer science engineering [1st yr]. i was intrested in physics when i was in high school. due to some circumstances i chose computer science engineering degree. so i want to incoporate computer science engineering with physics and i came across computational physics. i am intrested studying it but i dont know where to start. can you guys reccomend me some yt channels or some free courses or some other way to learn the computational physics.
I'm going to make this one quick since I have little time. Background: Throughout my life I have always done good in Math. I almost always received 90%+, and received easily upwards of 95% when I took normal-level HS Math courses. When I took Grade 9 "De-Streamed" Math (All students must take "De-Streamed" in Canada), I initially had 98% until I got very sick and my mark had dropped to 95%. The Physics teachers and Math teachers talked about me as if I were some sort of genius. Then, an...
Bit Britain-specific but I was wondering, what's the best path to take for A-Levels out of the following (I know Y10 seems a bit early to be thinking about A-levels, but my choice will impact what I do this year/ in y11) I (almost) definitely want to do physics at University - so keep that in mind... The subjects that I'm almost definitely going to take are Maths, Further Maths and Physics, and I'm taking a fast track programme which means that I'll be taking AS computer science at the end...
Back
Top