How do you get into physics when you already graduated?

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter dmacfour
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the challenges and opportunities for individuals interested in transitioning to physics after completing a degree in a different field, specifically psychology. Participants explore self-study options, elective courses, and the differences between psychology and physics, particularly regarding the mathematical components involved in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses regret for not studying hard sciences earlier and seeks advice on how to start learning physics without returning to school immediately.
  • Another participant suggests self-study as a viable option until the individual can afford to return to school.
  • Several participants propose taking a physics elective to gauge interest and understand the mathematical demands of the subject, noting the significant differences between physics and psychology.
  • A participant highlights a specific interest in learning the mathematical aspects of physics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the value of self-study and taking an elective to explore physics, but there is no consensus on the best approach or the feasibility of transitioning to physics from a different academic background.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of confidence about their ability to transition into physics, with some emphasizing the importance of mathematics, which may present a barrier for those coming from a non-STEM background.

dmacfour
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Hi everyone,

I've always had an interest in science, which led me to my current situation as a graduate researcher in a softer science (experimental psychology). I'll be graduating with a Masters degree next semester, and going into a career in human factors psychology. Unfortunately, I never considered studying one of the hard sciences until it was too late, which is what I now regret. I find psychology interesting, but also lacking. I want to learn other scientific disciplines both as a matter of pride, and personal interest.

My question is: If I'm interested in learning about physics, but going back for a degree isn't an option for a number of years, where do I start? I want to go back to school someday, but I don't want to sit around until then either. I only have the opportunity to take a 3 credit elective before graduating at this point.
 
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dmacfour said:
I never considered studying one of the hard sciences until it was too late, which is what I now regret.

My question is: If I'm interested in learning about physics, but going back for a degree isn't an option for a number of years, where do I start?

You are never bound to any fate nor too late. Self study until you can gather save enough to go back to school.
 
Well you can use that 3-credit elective to take physics I and see if you actually like it or not. Physics involves a lot of mathematics and is very different from psychology - you may find that your impression of physics and what physics is actually like are very different.
 
dipole said:
Well you can use that 3-credit elective to take physics I and see if you actually like it or not. Physics involves a lot of mathematics and is very different from psychology - you may find that your impression of physics and what physics is actually like are very different.

I'd say that the math is one of the things I'm more interested in learning.
 

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