Deciding Ph.D Field: Astrophysics vs Quantum Computing

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision-making process for pursuing a Ph.D. in either astrophysics or quantum computing. Participants explore their interests, experiences, and the perceived job market in these fields, as well as considerations for studying in the US or Canada.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a strong initial interest in astrophysics but is deterred by poorly taught courses and a perception that the field lacks job opportunities.
  • Another participant highlights their interest in quantum computing, noting a passion for computers and quantum physics.
  • Concerns are raised about the job market in astrophysics, with a participant suggesting that there may not be a significant demand for professionals in that area.
  • Quantum computing is viewed as having great potential, although some participants note a scarcity of universities specializing in this field.
  • There is a suggestion to consider Canadian universities that have programs in quantum computing, specifically mentioning institutions like UFT, UCal, and UWaterloo.
  • One participant questions the lack of responses to the thread, reflecting on the uncertainty faced by students in making such decisions.
  • Another participant, who has a master's degree, comments on the difficulty of making a decision and suggests that if one is interested in quantum mechanics or quantum computing, they might consider a graduate program in electrical engineering.
  • A participant expresses a desire for opinions specifically on the two fields rather than general discussions about employability.
  • There is a question about the possibility of specializing in more than one field, referencing a notable figure in quantum information theory who also engages with particle physics and cosmology.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the viability and future prospects of astrophysics versus quantum computing. There is no consensus on which field is more favorable, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the best path forward.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about job prospects and the quality of education in their fields of interest. There are also varying opinions on the feasibility of pursuing multiple specializations.

Baggio
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It's an important time for me, I need to decide what I want to do. I know I want to do a Ph.D (I have 1 year left of my Mphys degree in the UK) but I'm not sure about the fieldto specialise in. When I began university I was really set on doing a PhD in astrophysics.. But I've been put off by some of the astrophysics courses taught at my university (they were badly taught) and also the fact that astrophysicists seem to just sit at a computer and crunch numbers all day.

I'm also interested in Quantum information/Quantum computing as I'm really into computers (building/programming) and Quantum physics is one of my favourite areas of study.

I've looked at these two fields for sometime and my impression is that

Astrophysics - Not many jobs available, doesn't seem to be a great need for people in this field

Quantum computing - Has great potential but there aren't many universities who have groups that specialise in their development..

I'm also looking at attending a US university for my studies - for a change of environment, personal reasons and also the fact that there are many good schools.

My ultimate problem is deciding which field to focus on. Which field has a brighter future? Should I choose say 5 or 6 different fields at different universities and apply to them or should I just focus on one? :confused:

Any advice would be great!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
if your interested Canada has some people in QC i believe Uft, Ucal and Uwaterloo(just opened up a physics institute dedicated to QC i believe.
 
neurocomp2003 said:
if your interested Canada has some people in QC i believe Uft, Ucal and Uwaterloo(just opened up a physics institute dedicated to QC i believe.

Cool thanks I'll add that to my list of places I need to research... Keep the cmments coming. much appreciated.
 
50 views and only 1 opinion?
 
Baggio said:
50 views and only 1 opinion?

That's life... :redface:
 
you have a masters degree and you are not sure - try to guess what people who are in college or have a bachelors think - we are not sure even more

if you are into physics then major in physics. if you want to get involved in QM/QC might as well go to grad school for EE
 
 
cronxeh said:
you have a masters degree and you are not sure - try to guess what people who are in college or have a bachelors think - we are not sure even more

if you are into physics then major in physics. if you want to get involved in QM/QC might as well go to grad school for EE

I am In college it's a 4 year course with the 4th year being the "masters" part. ZapperZ, thanks I'm reading those threads now but I'd rather have an opinion on the two specific fields them selves as opposed to a general discussion on employability etc.

Also is it possible to specialise in more than one field? for example I was researching into quantum computing and I came across John Preskill at Caltech and he specialises in quantum information theory particle physics and cosmology.
 
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