Schools HELP: Interdisciplinary programmes in GRAD SCHOOL

[neurocomp2003]

Hi
I graduated 2 years ago with a BSc in Neural Computation /w minor Astrophysics. The past 2 years I've tried to learn game programming but I realized my passion is simulating the sciences in 3D environments(particularly Astrophysics and ALife/Cogsci).

I was a B+ student with avg breakdown of MATH A, PHYS A-, COMPSCI B+
PSYCH & LIFESCI C+...As you can see my psych marks are pretty bad but my other marks are relatively comfortable.

My problem is that applying to grad school I don't fit under the courses bracket for any of the depts: Math, Compsci, Phys, Psych.

My QUESTION is...How do I approach the departments with the problem above wanting to do an Interdisplinary programme in either math/cs/physics or math/cs/psych. Most of these depts require taking a lot of grad courses in single dept.

But what I want to take are courses from each dept like

Bifurcation & Stability Theory
Dynamical Systems(some differ from the above)
Math. Neurosci.
Numerical Methods (I-II if they have both)
Number THeory
Chaos Theory
Graphics
Animations
Computer Vision
Computer Audition
Computer Linguistics

4 courses in Astrophysics(Stellar formation, cosmology ...)
Classical Mechanics
OR
Vision/Audition/Child Development

Best
Jack

 

[Moonbear]

The best approach to this is to find a person doing research in the area that interests you and contact them about how to go about applying to grad school (and if they would have openings in their lab for a student if you successfully applied to their program). Faculty can be affiliated with multiple graduate programs, and their students come to them through whichever program best suits their primary interests. Graduate programs usually have room for you to take a few classes outside the program, and you can take courses in the complementary program without needing to meet all their degree requirements.

Another alternative is to choose a primary dept and primary mentor, but then arrange to have a co-mentor in another dept or a dissertation committee composed of faculty in both depts. But for something that is going to depart from the usual departmental offerings, it's really important that you identify who you will potentially work with in advance and ensure they would be open to this idea before you choose the programs to apply to. This doesn't mean you're locked into working with them if you do lab rotations and find something else interests you that you didn't expect and work with that person instead, but it just means you'll be sure to apply someplace where you will have someone to work with once there.

 

[hhegab]

Hi Jack,

Thank you for reaching out for help on your graduate school journey. It sounds like you have a strong interdisciplinary background and a clear passion for simulating sciences in 3D environments. This is a great starting point for exploring interdisciplinary programs in graduate school.

First, I would recommend researching graduate programs that have a strong focus on interdisciplinary studies. This may require looking beyond traditional departments and exploring programs that specifically cater to students with diverse academic backgrounds. Look for programs that have a strong focus on simulation, computational sciences, or cognitive sciences as these may align well with your interests.

Once you have a list of potential programs, reach out to the admissions departments or program directors to inquire about your specific situation. Explain your background and interests, and ask if they have any recommendations for how you can tailor your application to fit their program. You may also want to mention specific courses or research areas that interest you and ask if they are available within the program.

In addition, consider reaching out to professors or researchers within the departments that interest you. They may have insight on how to craft an interdisciplinary program that meets your needs and aligns with their research interests. They may also be able to provide guidance on which courses to take and how to structure your program.

Lastly, don't be discouraged by your lower grades in psychology and life sciences. While they may not align with your current interests, your strong performance in math, physics, and computer science demonstrates your ability to excel in these fields. Emphasize your strengths and passion in your application and highlight how an interdisciplinary program will allow you to merge your diverse interests and skills.

Best of luck in your graduate school journey!