Grad School from a State University

[Ateowa]

I go to a small state university in Pennsylvania. I'll probably end up with a dual major in Physics and Math, possibly a minor in Comp Sci. But here's my issue: My university is really not meant for Physics. It has a really small department, and there aren't that many high-level courses offered. I've discussed this issue with the department chair, and he said I really have three options. I could A) Take 1-on-1 courses with many of my professors to get knowledge in things that other universities offer as real courses, such as higher-level QM classes; B) Spend my senior year at another university (The chair and I discussed a European university) to gain access to those higher-level courses; C)Transfer to a college more designed for Physics.

I'm at a loss. I'm heading into my second year of Physics, and I've gotten high marks so far. Most of the Physics professors like me, and I have an Ind. Study class on GR this coming semester. I'll probably finish all the requirements for my major (Other than the credit number requirement) by the end of my junior year. Should I transfer out to a better school? Will I be able to make it/survive in a good grad school for Physics? And where can I get a good handle on what Physics grad schools I'd want to go to anyway?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Asphodel]

Taking courses with a 1:1 student to faculty ratio sounds pretty awesome IMO.

 

[will.c]

I agree. I wouldn't worry about switching schools as long as the professors are willing and capable of leading you and assessing your ability in the subjects you want to learn.

If you have the drive, and you clearly do, it's not going to be a problem. A friend of mine who graduated a year before me took nothing but independent studies his senior year (it didn't take him long to exhaust our undergrad curriculum, either).