Engineering Getting back into physics after engineering masters

Click For Summary
Earning a Master's in Nuclear Engineering can serve as a viable pathway for someone with a BS in Physics aiming for a Ph.D. in Physics. The difficulty of transitioning back to physics after completing a nuclear engineering master's largely depends on the specific content of the nuclear program and the area of physics one wishes to pursue. Many engineers have successfully transitioned to Ph.D. programs in physics, particularly if their master's studies include relevant theoretical components, such as neutron transport. However, it is essential to consider the administrative requirements and expectations of U.S. Ph.D. programs, which may vary. Overall, pursuing a master's in nuclear engineering does not inherently damage the chances of obtaining a doctorate in physics, provided the right coursework and research focus are chosen.
ZeroSkyOne
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
I'm a 2013 graduate with a BS in physics (no specialization). My current line of work doesn't allow me to pursue a degree in-residence however an advanced degree is required for career progression. I've been looking into nuclear engineering programs offered online, mainly Penn State. However, I would like to ultimately earn my Ph.D. in physics. My questions: how difficult would it be to (1) earn a Masters in nuclear engineering and (2) then get back into physics to earn my doctorate with only a nuclear engineering masters as a foundation?

I've read the other postings related to physics BS-to-nuke engineering but my concern is damaging my chances of pursuing the doctorate.

Thanks in advance for the input/advice. If you need any additional info please let me know.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
(2) It depends on the content of the Master in Nuclear Engineering as well as on the field in physics you are interested in. Many engineers earned a PhD in physics. In depth study of "Neutron transport" can be seen as theoretical physics. I don't know about the administrative pov in the US, as I live in EU.
 

Thread 'Career Prospects (outside of academia)'

For some background, I'm currently a 3rd year physics major with an astro specialization studying in Canada, and as undergraduates are want to do I'm regularly evaluating my career prospects down the road. I also plan on pursuing grad school when I've completed my degree. It might just be my anxiety acting up a little, but with a lot of the government funding drying up for public science research broadly in the US, the 'industry' everyone keeps talking about when questions like this are...
View full post »

Similar threads

Physics Need career guidance after masters in physics
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
5K
Engineering Masters programs to work in aerospace/defense as an engineer
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
5K
Engineering Specialization in Electrical Engineering - Looking for Direction
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Physics What to do After Graduating with a Physics BS?
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
6K
Engineering Is it possible to go back to biomedical engineering after teaching?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Job Skills How do I make myself more employable?
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
4K
Engineering What do Engineering Physics majors do when they graduate?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Physics Graduating with 2:2 in Physics. What can I do? (Ireland)
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Engineering Physics bachelors to Engineering masters
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
26K
What's the best major between Physics & Chemistry for entering MS in Nuclear Engineering?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K