From Masters to PhD: My Plan & Advice Needed

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In summary, the person discussing their plan is considering applying to the University of Washington and Washington State Masters program in Physics, with a final thesis, and then possibly applying for a PhD program at other schools. They are concerned about the acceptance process and the cost of applying to multiple schools. They have a 2.45 GPA and a BS in Biology, but have taken most of the courses for a Physics BS. There are concerns about their preparation for a PhD program and the likelihood of being accepted with a low GPA. They also mention wanting to work in industry after getting a Masters degree in the next five years.
  • #1
t-money
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My Plan
I plan on applying to the Univeristy of Washington's and Washington State Masters program (terminal) Although the program is not designed such that one could move on to a PhD in the process. I was thinking of getting a Masters in Physics (condensed matter) with a final Thesis, and If I do well and enjoy it as much as I think I will. Then I will apply again to a PhD program to other schools, hopefully with good recommendations and good grades apply to some top twenty schools.

The Question:
Is this reasonable?
do schools accept people with this background?

Any Advice would be much appreciated
Thanks.
 
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  • #2
What's your undergrad degree? Is there any particular reason you don't want to do a Ph.D. program now, when you could drop out with a master's if that's what you wanted to do?

I chose to do a terminal master's because I didn't feel prepared enough to start a doctoral program immediately after undergrad. I'm glad I did, I really wouldn't have been prepared for a full doctoral program at the time. Now I'm in better shape, academically, and I know better what I want to do in a doctoral program (eventually).
 
  • #3
That sounds reasonable to me. The only concern I would have is the cost of applying to 20 Ph.D. programs! Application fees and transcript fees add up.
 
  • #4
I am graduating with a BS in Biology and finishing up physics minor. I have taken all but four elective courses for a physics BS but I found out that I can jump into a physics masters program any way. I have a 2.45 GPA so I thought it would be a good way to boost my credentials. this is my fifth year so the school really wants to kick me out :) .

I meant to say that I want to apply to schools in the top twenty. :)
 
  • #5
With a 2.45 GPA, do you think its reasonable to apply in 'top schools'...?
 
  • #6
After a Masters Degree maybe
 
  • #7
I don't think this plan will do what you want.

The UW program says in bold letters: This program is not intended as preparation for a PhD Program. You need to realize your preparation is poor: you don't have a BS in physics, and your GPA is very, very poor. Adding a degree that specifically states that it is not intended for preparation for a PhD does not improve your preparation.

That's assuming you even get in the program with a 2.45 and no degree in physics. This is not guaranteed.

Frankly, the only way you are going to get in a top school with a 2.45 and no physics degree is with a letter of recommendation from a recognized name that says something like "best student in the past 10 years".
 
  • #8
I agree with that, from what I have seen most grad schools don't admit people with less than a 3.5, and that is on the low end for applying to a Masters program.
 
  • #9
Alright, forget the top school I just want to study physics at the graduate level and I think getting a masters degree would be a good way to do that.
 
  • #10
Your GPA is sh1t poor. And its in life sciences.

The only way you'd get into a physics PhD... I'll spare you, you wont.

Up those grades in another year or choose crappy school. I sure as hell wouldn't want a C student telling me of his research on condensed matter.
 
  • #11
Howers said:
Your GPA is sh1t poor. And its in life sciences.

The only way you'd get into a physics PhD... I'll spare you, you wont.

Up those grades in another year or choose crappy school. I sure as hell wouldn't want a C student telling me of his research on condensed matter.


That is why I think I will apply through the masters program first and not try to immediately go for the PhD. Afterwards based on how I do, I will then consider a PhD program. I am not trying to apply for the PhD. straight out of my undergrad.
 
  • #12
A masters program won't accept a C student either...
I am applying to masters programs at top Canadian schools, with lots of research experience and a 3.7 and its still hit or miss (I haven't received any rejections yet but I anticipate the possibility) As for not good schools, they still won't accept anyone below a 3.0 into a masters program.
 
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  • #13
t-money said:
My Plan
I plan on applying to the Univeristy of Washington's and Washington State Masters program (terminal) Although the program is not designed such that one could move on to a PhD in the process. I was thinking of getting a Masters in Physics (condensed matter) with a final Thesis, and If I do well and enjoy it as much as I think I will. Then I will apply again to a PhD program to other schools, hopefully with good recommendations and good grades apply to some top twenty schools.

The Question:
Is this reasonable?
do schools accept people with this background?

Any Advice would be much appreciated
Thanks.

After all the discussion (some of which I disagree with), I still don't understand what you intend to do with your education, Ph.D. or no. Do you have a 5-year plan? A 10-year plan? Are you staying in school as a means to avoid getting a job?
 
  • #14
Andy Resnick said:
After all the discussion (some of which I disagree with), I still don't understand what you intend to do with your education, Ph.D. or no. Do you have a 5-year plan? A 10-year plan? Are you staying in school as a means to avoid getting a job?

My plan is to work in industry after getting a masters degree in the next five years.
 
  • #15
Master degree at a decent school is more than you might imagine now, let not talk about PhDs.

If you can get into a master programme, do it, because I don't think you stand a chance to get into PhD from your status now. PhD in analytical discipline is more demanding than you have faced so far I am certain.
 

FAQ: From Masters to PhD: My Plan & Advice Needed

1. What is the difference between a Master's degree and a PhD?

A Master's degree is typically a 1-2 year program that focuses on advanced coursework and may include a research component. A PhD, on the other hand, is a longer and more intensive program that requires original research and the completion of a dissertation. It is considered the highest level of academic achievement in a field.

2. How do I know if I am ready to pursue a PhD after completing my Master's degree?

There is no one answer to this question as readiness for a PhD program depends on individual circumstances. Some factors to consider are your academic strengths, research interests, and career goals. It may also be helpful to speak with professors or current PhD students to get a better understanding of the expectations and demands of a PhD program.

3. Can I switch fields when pursuing a PhD?

Yes, it is possible to switch fields when pursuing a PhD, but it may require additional coursework or research experience to make up for any knowledge gaps. It is important to carefully consider the reasons for switching fields and to make sure the new field aligns with your goals and interests.

4. What are some important factors to consider when choosing a PhD program?

Some important factors to consider when choosing a PhD program include the reputation and resources of the university, the research opportunities and funding available, the faculty and their areas of expertise, the program's curriculum and requirements, and the location and cost of living.

5. How can I prepare for a successful PhD application?

There are several ways to prepare for a successful PhD application. Some suggestions include gaining research experience, maintaining a strong GPA, cultivating relationships with professors for letters of recommendation, studying for and performing well on standardized tests, and clearly articulating your research interests and goals in your application materials.

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