Combined BS/MS Degree in Space Physics: Pros & Cons

[mmapcpro]

Hey,

I am about 90 credits into my space physics degree. Last friday, I went to talk to the department chair (we've communicated a lot since I started school because I'm a bit older than the other students and we share some interests), and he asked me if I'd be interested in switching over to their new combined BS/MS degree in space physics. He said it would only add about 20 credits to the B.S. requirements.

Any thoughts on the pros and cons of doing this?

This would allow me to be automatically admitted to a masters program without having to deal with GRE, and other applications requirements.

Some people have told me that its not a great idea to do graduate work at the same school you did undergrad at because you want more diversity in research opportunities.

If I decide to do a PhD in an area of physics other than space physics, will this be a waste of time.

Would this degree make me more attractive to PhD programs?

 

[imabug]

if space physics is something you're interested in and want to continue on, then it's definitely worth considering (esp if you get to skip that GRE). If you're thinking space physics isn't really your thing, then you might want to go the more conventional route.

Doing a graduate degree at the same place you did your undergrad is not necessarily a bad thing, especially at the Master's level. A lot of people have done it (myself included) and probably will continue to do it. I've even known people who did a Bachelor's and PhD at the same place. What's really important is if you know there's someone good you want to work with and a good project you want to work on.

What a lot of people will discourage is doing all three (bachelor, master and PhD) all at the same place.

I don't think it would make you any more or less attractive when hunting for a PhD. You're still essentially coming out with a Master's degree.

 

[hhegab]

There are definitely pros and cons to pursuing a combined BS/MS degree in space physics. On one hand, it can be a great opportunity to save time and possibly money by completing both degrees in a shorter amount of time. It also allows for a smooth transition into a master's program without having to go through the application process. Additionally, having a master's degree can make you more competitive in the job market and potentially open up more career opportunities.

However, there are also some potential downsides to consider. One concern is that by completing both degrees at the same institution, you may not have as much exposure to different research opportunities and perspectives. This can limit your academic growth and potential for collaboration with different experts in the field. Additionally, if you decide to pursue a PhD in a different area of physics, the space physics focus of your combined degree may not be as relevant and could potentially be seen as a waste of time.

That being said, having a master's degree in space physics can still make you a strong candidate for PhD programs, as it shows your dedication and expertise in the field. It may also give you a solid foundation for pursuing a PhD in a related field.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue a combined degree or not will depend on your individual goals and priorities. Consider speaking with other students or professors in the program to get a better understanding of the experiences and opportunities available. It may also be helpful to research potential job prospects and PhD programs to see how a combined degree may benefit you in the long run.