Schools Do I have enough classes completed to go to grad school?

AI Thread Summary
When applying to a graduate program in physics, a solid academic record is important, with a focus on upper-level coursework. A GPA of 3.5 overall and 3.8 in upper-level physics is decent, but the applicant feels their course load is light. To strengthen their application, they are considering taking additional courses, possibly graduate-level, while also preparing for the GRE. Suggested courses include a math programming class and advanced mechanics or mathematical methods. It's crucial to ensure that coursework aligns with the expectations of the target programs, particularly in areas like electromagnetism, which typically requires a full year of study. Additionally, research experience and interests are vital components of a strong application, as admissions committees prioritize candidates' research backgrounds and preferences, whether in experimental or theoretical physics. Consulting with an undergraduate advisor for tailored guidance is recommended.
NucEngMajor
Messages
21
Reaction score
0
So, I want to apply to a graduate program in physics in the fall. I have a decent 3.5 overall gap (3.8 upper level physics), but I feel like my course work is light. I'm graduating this semester and am contemplating coming back for a few more courses (maybe graduate) to strengthen my application although I would prefer to work in the Fall to pay off loans while studying a lot for GRE. Advice?
My classes taken:
General I; General II; Math through ODE and a class on proofs; Mechanics, EM (only one semester), Thermal Physics, Modern Physics, Quantum Mechanics, Electronics lab, Modern Physics Lab, Dynamics Lab.

Was thinking about taking a math programming class in summer and maybe grad mechanics or math methods in fall. Unless that one semester of EM is really bad and I should take another at some school?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You need to check the level of your courses against those a physics major would have taken at the schools you are considering. A physics major typically studies each topic twice. In any case you need a full year of junior-level E&M class. I suggest you talk to the undergrad counselor at your physics dept. for advice.
 
  • Like
Likes DrSteve
I went from a PhD in Nuclear engineering to a physics post doc at MIT, so it can be done.

Considerably more important than what courses you have taken (since these can be taken during a gap year, or Fall of your first year in grad school or even online) is the question of what research have you done? Do you have research interests? Have you ever worked in a lab? Or do you prefer theory? This is what the admissions committee is going to want to know.
 
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"...
TL;DR Summary: I want to do a PhD in applied math but I hate group theory, is this a big problem? Hello, I am a second-year math and physics double major with a minor in data science. I just finished group theory (today actually), and it was my least favorite class in all of university so far. It doesn't interest me, and I am also very bad at it compared to other math courses I have done. The other courses I have done are calculus I-III, ODEs, Linear Algebra, and Prob/Stats. Is it a...

Similar threads

Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
3K
Replies
16
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
2K
Back
Top