Bachelor's, Masters and Phd's sequence for Math & Physics

[ahmed markhoos]

Hello,

It seems like mostly, the masters degree is skipped for those who are seeking a Phd degree (from Bachelor's to Phd directly).

I'm in my fourth year as undergraduate, studying physics. I like both math and physics and I really want to master them both. The thing is that my university physics degree (Bachelor) does not offer that much supplements in math and does not focus on it. I will absolutely apply for a Phd in physics "theoretical". But I don't think I am mature enough and satisfied with my math knowledge.

So I was thinking of taking a masters degree in mathematics, then apply to a Phd in physics. My decision is based on seeking knowledge. But at the same time it seems like a silly decision!

I know most of the math needed in the physics Phd will be learned through it, But the truth is I don't want to be limited with the tools provided for me.


Does this decision seems silly for you? What is your opinion?

 

[micromass]

Yes, this is a silly decision

1) You're interested mostly in physics and you see math mostly as a tool. A master in math will NOT give you further tools necessary for physics. What you learn there might not at all what you need for physics.
2) If your math background is bad, then you won't be able to handle a masters in math.

You want to do a Phd in physics, then I'd say to go for it immediately. You can self study the necessary mathematics.

 

[ahmed markhoos]

Yes, this is a silly decision

1) You're interested mostly in physics and you see math mostly as a tool. A master in math will NOT give you further tools necessary for physics. What you learn there might not at all what you need for physics.
2) If your math background is bad, then you won't be able to handle a masters in math.

You want to do a Phd in physics, then I'd say to go for it immediately. You can self study the necessary mathematics.

I don't really see it as a tool.
Hmmm, I might say that I am actually trying to study them together at the same time each for its own sake!- Should I instead apply for a mathematical physics degree "Another silly decision I think. Mathematical and theoretical physics degrees seems to be somehow the same thing!"

It's like wanting to marry two girls at the same time

 

[micromass]

Mathematical and theoretical physics degrees seems to be somehow the same thing!

They are definitely not the same thing. They can be very different.

As for mathematical physics, I wouldn't say that they actually do physics. They investigate the math behind the physics. Theoretical physics tries to predict new theories in physics.

 

[ahmed markhoos]

They are definitely not the same thing. They can be very different.

As for mathematical physics, I wouldn't say that they actually do physics. They investigate the math behind the physics. Theoretical physics tries to predict new theories in physics.

Okay, then I think the most appropriate degree for me is a Phd in Theoretical Physics, but in a field that is abstract mathematically!.
What are the physics fields that deal with abstract math (not necessarily abstract physics!) ?

 

[micromass]

I don't really think it's a good idea to accept any physics field that just deals with "abstract math" (whatever that is). Isn't there a type of physics you like more than others?

 

[ahmed markhoos]

I don't really think it's a good idea to accept any physics field that just deals with "abstract math" (whatever that is). Isn't there a type of physics you like more than others?

I don't really have a favorite type. But for sure I don't like to deal with experiments >_<. For real, I don't know! Maybe I need help in how to search and what to search for.

 

[micromass]

If literally anything in math and anything in physics is good for you, then you're going to have a very tough time deciding on a research field. You really should narrow down your options.