How to become a physicist from an engineer?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenges faced by an Electrical Engineer seeking to transition into a Physics career, specifically in theoretical models of elementary particles. The individual has faced multiple rejections from US universities for MS and PhD programs, attributed to a lack of a physics background and a low Physics GRE score of 630. Participants suggest that the applicant should request detailed feedback on their application rejections and improve their GRE score, as well as explore non-US universities for potential opportunities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Physics GRE requirements and scoring
  • Familiarity with graduate school application processes
  • Knowledge of foundational physics concepts, including Electromagnetism, Quantum Mechanics, and Classical Mechanics
  • Awareness of international university options for physics programs
NEXT STEPS
  • Request detailed feedback from universities regarding application rejections
  • Prepare for a higher score on the Physics GRE, aiming for above 700
  • Research non-US universities with strong physics programs
  • Engage in self-study or formal courses to strengthen foundational physics knowledge
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineers, aspiring physicists, and students navigating graduate school applications in physics.

mukul12
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Hi,

I am an Electrical Engineer but I want to become a Physicist and do research to develop theoretical models of elementary partials.
I have applied in several universities in US for MS and PhD programs but they have rejected me, I believe because of my non physics background.

Can someone suggest me what would be the best way to become a Physicist at this moment!
I am open to every possibility.
 
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mukul12 said:
Hi,

I am an Electrical Engineer but I want to become a Physicist and do research to develop theoretical models of elementary partials.
I have applied in several universities in US for MS and PhD programs but they have rejected me, I believe because of my non physics background.

Can someone suggest me what would be the best way to become a Physicist at this moment!
I am open to every possibility.

I hope you mean you want to develop theoretical models of elementary particles.

Graduate programs are not in the habit of rejecting an applicant solely because his academic background may not correspond exactly with the preparation required for the degree sought. There are many objective criteria to consider, such as your previous academic record, your scores on standardized tests, like the GRE, whether the graduate institution will accept credits from your undergraduate institution, etc.

If the schools which have rejected your application have not provided clear reasons for their decision, perhaps a request in writing asking for a detailed evaluation of why your application was rejected is in order now.
 
Okay, my physics GRE is 630, i know its not great, but this was the best I could do by preparing for 2 months while working. I am in parallel studying to take GRE this year again and my concepts of EM, Quantum and Classic Mechanics are fairly good. I was expecting the score to be higher!

Anyhow I am preparing again but I don't know the ideal or acceptable score to achieve as to get into a good/average university with my qualification. I am an Indian student from not very reputed university that makes things even difficult.

So now can you suggest something?

Is there any other non US university where I can apply?
 
SteamKing said:
perhaps a request in writing asking for a detailed evaluation of why your application was rejected is in order now.

I don't think many places would provide one. It's extra work, and there's no benefit for the school. At best, nothing happens. At worse, they get into a protracted argument.
 
mukul12 said:
Okay, my physics GRE is 630, i know its not great

It's not just "not great". It's low. About 2/3 of the students did better than that - and about twice as many students take the GRE than enter grad school.

Your background appears such that you are not prepared for graduate school in physics. Your GRE score reinforces that.
 

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