Entering Physics Graduate School From Another Major - Comments

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges and considerations of entering physics graduate school from non-physics majors, particularly focusing on the implications of diverse academic backgrounds on acceptance into prestigious programs. Participants share personal experiences and seek advice on navigating this transition.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Personal experience sharing

Main Points Raised

  • One participant with a background in aerospace engineering and a minor in physics questions whether their non-physics BS would be seen as a disadvantage or an opportunity for diversity by selection committees at top schools.
  • Another participant, who transitioned from an English degree to pursuing a physics degree, discusses the challenges of self-teaching calculus and balancing multiple jobs while preparing for a physics career.
  • This participant highlights the importance of utilizing resources from the forum, such as free textbooks and community support, to aid in their educational journey.
  • There is an acknowledgment of the varying levels of preparedness among applicants from different academic backgrounds, with some expressing concerns about the perceived gaps in foundational knowledge.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the impact of non-traditional backgrounds on graduate school acceptance, with some believing it could enhance diversity while others worry it may hinder chances due to a lack of formal physics education.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention varying levels of mathematical and scientific preparation, which may affect their readiness for graduate-level physics. There is also a recognition of the need for additional coursework or self-study to bridge knowledge gaps.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering a transition to physics graduate programs from non-physics majors, as well as those interested in personal experiences related to educational pathways in STEM fields.

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Entering Physics Graduate School From Another Major

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Great essay. I have a BS in aerospace engineering (minored in physics), and a MS in astronautical engineering. I've been studying for the physics GRE and plan to take it this winter. My question is: What (dis)advantage would I have in applying to a big physics school (MIT, CalTech, Stanford, Princeton, etc.) to pursue my PhD soley in terms of acceptance? In general, would the selection committee see my background and want to accept me, just to bring in diversity, or would they shun me since I don't not have a Physics BS?
 
"If you come from a non-science, non-technical background, you may want to consider how far up a hole you’re willing to climb to achieve your goal."

Reference https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/entering-physics-graduate-school-from-another-major/

Yes! I graduated in 2014, as a non-trad, with an English degree. Since then, I've been setting my sights on obtaining a physics degree and becoming a physicist. However, the highest level of math I had under my belt was Pre-cal which I took as an elective for my English degree; my only science was an intro to chem course. So, I decided to see just how practical it would be to accomplish should I embark on such an adventure.

Firstly, I didn't know where to start, but after a few google searches, I found PF. Utilizing the free textbooks and homework sections, as well as Insights articles and the various posts of encouragement and discussions throughout the forum, I started with Calculus. Self-teaching calculus is difficult enough and doing it while working multiple jobs is even harder, so I applied for and landed an entry-level job at the state university to take advantage of a tuition reimbursement benefit they allowed for staff. I enrolled in Calc. I in the spring of 2017 and ended up with an A. From there I've taken some online physics and engineering courses while maintaining a self-study habit.

I still have a long way to go, but, at 33 years old, I've been accepted for 2nd Bachelor's in Physics for Fall 2018.
 

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