Can a math professor have Physics and Math in PhDs or some degrees like BA/MA?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the possibility of a math professor obtaining degrees in both physics and mathematics, specifically focusing on the feasibility of pursuing PhDs in both fields or other degrees like BA/MA. The scope includes academic pathways, interdisciplinary studies, and personal motivations for such pursuits.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that it is possible for a math professor to pursue a PhD in physics alongside a PhD in mathematics, suggesting that interdisciplinary studies can be beneficial.
  • Others mention that courses from physics, mathematics, engineering, or other sciences can support each other, indicating that faculty may have diverse academic backgrounds.
  • One participant notes that some professors have degrees in different fields, implying that it is not uncommon for academic paths to cross between mathematics and physics.
  • There is a suggestion that obtaining two PhDs is feasible, although it raises questions about the personal sacrifices involved in such a pursuit.
  • Another participant reflects on the value of pursuing knowledge in both fields, framing it as a noble endeavor despite potential lifestyle implications.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying views on the practicality and implications of pursuing multiple degrees, with no clear consensus on the best approach or the lifestyle considerations involved.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions regarding the definitions of "having a life" and the personal motivations for pursuing advanced degrees, which remain unresolved in the discussion.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in academic careers in mathematics and physics, as well as those considering interdisciplinary studies in STEM fields.

NasuSama
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I am wondering if this is possible to have such a path. Can a math professor take physics PhD to do mathematical physics and math PhD to do the research on mathematic topics?
 
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You maybe want to reword your question.

Courses of study from any of Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, or other sciences can support each other. A physicist may have more mathematics courses credited than were necessary; or a mathematician could have more Physics course credit than necessary for his mathematical work. Realize that faculty from one university department may teach classes/courses in another university department. I remember a few like that. One professor who taught computer science where I went also taught some Physics courses. Which department was he in officially? No memory, but his instruction was fairly good in both.
 
I took another look at your title of the topic.

Find what degrees your professors have. You may find that for some of them, the BA or BS was in one field and their PhD is in another field, either somewhat related or strongly related.
 
symbolipoint said:
You maybe want to reword your question.

I mean can a mathematic professor take the certain highest degree (like BA, MA or PhD) in Physics while taking PhD in Math? Wonder if that is possible. I'm interested in becoming one because I'm so delved into such subjects.
 
If you mean obtaining two PhDs then yes it's possible, and I read of some that did it.

The question really is "Don't you have a life?"
 
MathematicalPhysicist said:
If you mean obtaining two PhDs then yes it's possible, and I read of some that did it.

The question really is "Don't you have a life?"

Yep, I do, but I don't want to get too crazy with this!
 
MathematicalPhysicist said:
The question really is "Don't you have a life?"

That depends on how you define having 'a life'. I think pursuing a knowledge of the true workings of the universe is a very noble life, indeed.
 
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