Dilemma: pathway to be theoretical physicist

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers around an undergraduate student in Malaysia pursuing a BSc in Physics, particularly interested in theoretical physics but feeling underprepared in mathematical foundations necessary for advanced studies. Key concerns include seeking recommended resources to enhance knowledge in theoretical physics, exploring possibilities for graduate studies in reputable institutions in the US after graduation, and addressing financial constraints regarding pursuing a master's or PhD abroad. The student is also uncertain about the acceptance of their degree by foreign universities and whether they would need to take entrance examinations. Other participants express similar concerns and request suggestions for reading materials to improve their understanding of the subject. The conversation highlights the importance of solidifying foundational knowledge and navigating the complexities of further education in theoretical physics.
emp1u23
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Hi there!

First let me put some background here:
1. I'm an undergraduate student from (an not-well-known) university in Malaysia. Currently studying Bsc Physics, at my final year.
2. I am very interested in theoretical physics. (but not certain which subfield, of course)
3. I was stuck here with (not so good) education. Just to be simple, I think I wasn't taught to learn sufficient math/pure physics to actually handle theoretical (eg: i learned quantum mechanics without developing sufficient math or idea in hilbert space, infinite vector space etc)


Question lingering in my head:
1. I am keen on my path. Is there any book/resources suggested to top up my knowledge, or fix my position? This is especially crucial as most institution allow graduate studies but I might don't have suffice knowledge to handle it. I notice http://www.phys.uu.nl/~thooft/theorist.html offer quite some information. Though I don't think I'll have the time(I'm graduating soon). Perhaps anyone may distill the essential ones out so I can focus?

2. I will eventually graduate. Let's assume I get (not super) but sufficiently good grades (first class, or second upper perhaps?). Is there any possibilities to enter other institutes which provide research in theoretical physics, preferably in US (and of course, not crappy unknown university)

3. I am also financially constrained. An open question: should I:
a. take a masters in malaysia, and further my studies overseas
b. take both masters & phd overseas (which in case i'll need to delay my plan until i get suffice cash)

the main concern is: will (a) cause problem (eg university not accepting masters here, etc?)

4. Will university overseas accept (accredit, whatever) my degree if I further study as postgrad? What if they don't accept? (ie is there entrance examination etc)

Now I'm sorry to throw bunch of weird questions around. Especially when questions get more and more subjective. Feel free to comment anything about it. Thanks!
 
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Hi,

I've sent you a private message, please check your inbox (I'm posting this since I'm not sure whether there are email notifications for the priv. msgs).

cheers,
 
physiker_192 said:
Hi,

I've sent you a private message, please check your inbox (I'm posting this since I'm not sure whether there are email notifications for the priv. msgs).

cheers,

replied! thanks!
 
emp1u23 said:
replied! thanks!
I also have almost similar concerns except, can you please inbox me your suggestions too.
 
Hi (that seems to be the standard protocol)

I am in a similar place as "emp" and was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on what i could read to amp up my knowledge and understanding.
 
demosthenes89 said:
Hi (that seems to be the standard protocol)

I am in a similar place as "emp" and was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on what i could read to amp up my knowledge and understanding.

Same here, it seems all the discussion decided to go into private messaging. =/
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...
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