Can You Specialize in Nuclear Physics and Quantum Mechanics in Grad School?

[cragar]

Is it possible to go to grad school and just study nuclear physics and Quantum mechanics?

 

[Physics_UG]

no it isn't.

 

[eri]

Grad school in the US usually combines the masters and PhD. You spend the first 2-3 years taking the masters coursework (usually 2 semesters each of quantum, E&M, classical, thermo, and math physics, or some combination of those) and more specialized topics courses in your field. Then you need to pass a qualifying exam on those subjects before proceeding to the dissertation to earn a PhD. So no, you can't show up and just take a couple specific classes and earn a degree. You need to take them all and demonstrate your knowledge of those fields (and often others as well).

 

[jesse73]

What course on QM would you take after 2-3 grad semesters of it? What would be the syllabus for such a class that wouldn't just be more appropriately named something else?

After 2-3 semesters of grad QM its time for QFT/Relativity/Critical Phenomena or something else?

 

[cragar]

ok can I go to math grad school and take my required math classes and then take QM classes for mathematicians

 

[eri]

There aren't QM classes for mathematicians. There are only QM classes in physics and chemistry departments. If you want to take a course in QM, study physics or physical chemistry.

 

[cragar]

I know for a fact their are math programs that teach QM, their emphasis is a little different

 

[Mmm_Pasta]

ok can I go to math grad school and take my required math classes and then take QM classes for mathematicians

What are you trying to accomplish? Are you aiming for a Master's or a PhD? As mentioned before, you will need to take other course alongside QM. Some departments will allow you take courses outside of the department with consent.

 

[jesse73]

I know for a fact their are math programs that teach QM, their emphasis is a little different

This is true. It is also possible to take a QM from the physics department if the person/people (advisor/dept) approves it.

 

[cragar]

Ideally I would like to study infinite combinatorics , knot theory, QM, and relativity all at the same place to at least earn a masters

 

[WannabeNewton]

There aren't QM classes for mathematicians.

Do you have even a single source to back this up? Take a look at old Caltech courses for some counter examples to this insane claim (e.g. the older ma 148c).

 

[jesse73]

Do you have even a single source to back this up? Take a look at old Caltech courses for some counter examples to this insane claim (e.g. the older ma 148c).

I suppose if he only means classes which have that exact name otherwise every university I have attended had such a class although under different names.