Can I Get a Physics Masters Degree with Undergrad Biology Background?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the feasibility of obtaining a master's degree in physics for someone with an undergraduate background in biology. It explores the necessary prerequisites, potential cross-crediting of courses, and the general requirements of physics programs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses interest in pursuing a master's degree in physics despite having limited undergraduate physics and math courses.
  • Another participant suggests that obtaining a bachelor's degree first is necessary, implying that a biology degree may not fully satisfy the requirements for a physics master's program.
  • Some participants note that there may be opportunities for cross-crediting from the biology degree, but emphasize that the specifics depend on the institution and prior coursework.
  • A participant challenges the necessity of a bachelor's degree in physics, particularly at lower-tier universities, questioning the rationale behind such a requirement.
  • There is a repeated emphasis on foundational subjects such as Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, and Quantum Mechanics, along with mathematics, as essential for a physics education.
  • Some participants express confusion regarding the rationale behind pursuing a physics degree given the initial background in biology.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that a bachelor's degree is required, but there is disagreement regarding the necessity of a physics-specific degree and the feasibility of transitioning from biology to physics. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific pathways available for someone with a biology background.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of detailed information on specific institutional requirements and the potential for varying interpretations of what constitutes adequate preparation for a master's program in physics.

BNeville Triplett
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I am a 40-something high school science teacher with a degree in biology. I am very interested in obtaining a masters degree in physics. My undergraduate courses in physics and math are limited. Is it feasible for me to obtain a masters degree in physics?
 
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BNeville Triplett said:
Is it feasible for me to obtain a masters degree in physics?

Sure but you'll need a bachelor first.
 
Welcome to PF;
Obtain the prospectus for the college you are interested in and read their requirements.
You may be able to cross-credit from your biology degree but you will need to satisfy the bachelor requirements for physics. There is not usually a lot of overlap between bio and phys,
The specifics will depend on the school and what you have done so far.
 
Simon Bridge said:
Welcome to PF;
Obtain the prospectus for the college you are interested in and read their requirements.
You may be able to cross-credit from your biology degree but you will need to satisfy the bachelor requirements for physics. There is not usually a lot of overlap between bio and phys,
The specifics will depend on the school and what you have done so far.
Ok thanks for the feedback. I will look into what I need to get an undergraduate degree and go from there.
 
Classical Mechanics, EM, Quantum Mechanics + Math.

The "need a BS in physics" is nonsense, particularly at lower tier universities if you don't need a TA position.

But a better question is, why bother?
 
Crek said:
Classical Mechanics, EM, Quantum Mechanics + Math.

The "need a BS in physics" is nonsense, particularly at lower tier universities if you don't need a TA position.

But a better question is, why bother?

This comment is unreadable. Just what're you trying to say?
 
Crek said:
Classical Mechanics, EM, Quantum Mechanics + Math.

The "need a BS in physics" is nonsense, particularly at lower tier universities if you don't need a TA position.

But a better question is, why bother?
I'm not sure I follow what you are trying to say.
 

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