Can I Make a Physics Career at 40?

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SUMMARY

A career in physics at the age of 40 is challenging, especially for those who have not worked in the field for 15 years. Pursuing a PhD may not be the most advantageous route, as job postings indicate that practical experience is often valued more than academic credentials. The timeline for becoming a professor is lengthy, requiring significant time for GRE preparation, graduate school, postdoctoral positions, and tenure, which may not justify the opportunity costs involved. Ultimately, pursuing a PhD may be more about personal fulfillment than career advancement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the physics academic landscape
  • Familiarity with GRE requirements and preparation
  • Knowledge of the postdoctoral application process
  • Awareness of tenure-track faculty expectations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the current job market for physics professionals
  • Explore alternative career paths for physics graduates
  • Investigate GRE preparation resources and timelines
  • Learn about the postdoctoral application process in physics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for individuals considering a career change into physics, particularly those contemplating graduate studies or a PhD later in life.

ber70
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I am 40. I finished physics (BS) 15 years ago. But I din't work as a physicist. Can I make phyics career or PHD on physics now?
 
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What do you mean by "career"?

Judging from the job postings I've seen, it may be better to have 15 years of experience than a PhD.

Anyway, if you want to be a professor, it's probably not going to work. Figure a year or two for you to catch up on stuff you've forgotten to take the GRE, 6 years in grad school then post docs, maybe a faculty position in ten years, and an additional 3-5 for tenure? It seems pretty unlikely that you'll ever cover your opportunity costs.

I dunno---unless you're doing a PhD to prove something to yourself, you're probably better off doing something else.
 

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