I need advice for a master's degree in applied physics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the considerations for pursuing a master's degree in applied physics, particularly focusing on the preparation needed in physics and mathematics. Participants explore the balance between reviewing fundamental subjects and advancing directly to more specialized topics such as quantum mechanics and statistical physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Mike, the original poster, is studying independently through the MIT OCW program and is uncertain whether to focus on fundamental physics and mathematics or to proceed directly to quantum mechanics and statistical physics.
  • Some participants suggest that a top-down approach, integrating concepts from various perspectives, may be more beneficial than a strictly bottom-up method.
  • A participant with a PhD in Physics recommends that Mike should complete introductory courses in classical mechanics and electromagnetism before tackling more advanced topics, emphasizing the importance of a solid foundation.
  • Mike expresses a desire to have a decent level of knowledge before focusing on applications, indicating a preference for a thorough understanding of essential physics concepts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present differing views on the best approach to preparing for the master's program, with no consensus on whether to prioritize fundamental subjects or advanced topics. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal study strategy.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific courses from the MIT OCW program, indicating a reliance on these materials for self-study. There is an acknowledgment of the need for a solid foundation in physics before advancing, but differing opinions on how to achieve this.

miiker97
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Hi, it's Mike from Barcelona. I'm a chemist and I completed half of a physics degree, but due to work reasons I had to drop out.
I'm currently working in the mornings and in the afternoons I'm studying on my own the MIT OCW physics program (I'm currently at 8.03 and 8.04 and about to finish 18.03) with the goal of refresh some material and having a decent foundation in physics and maths before enrolling to a master's degree in Engineering Physics (https://engineeringphysics.masters.upc.edu/), which focuses heavily on QM and statistical mechanics, as well as other areas of applied Physics.
Do you think I should focus on the more fundamental subjects of physics and maths, or should I go straight to the quantum mechanics and statistical physics part? Thanks
 
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What is your goal after you complete your master's?
 
Sorry for late reply. My goal after completing the master's would be to work as an engineer or as a consultant specialist. This master's degree has elective subjects closely related to the field of chemistry and materials science of those I've already studied. I don't know if this would be the my best option but it's the only one that really makes me want to study again. But I'm not sure I should spend time reviewing the basic physics or if I should go directly to prepare the quantum and statistical physics part. Thank you
 
My recommendation is to not stick to methods such as building yourself strictly bottom-up, but rather picking up concepts from different perspectives : seeing applicatiins, top down, your own explorations, however tempting it may be to trying just bottom up.
 
miiker97 said:
Sorry for late reply. My goal after completing the master's would be to work as an engineer or as a consultant specialist. This master's degree has elective subjects closely related to the field of chemistry and materials science of those I've already studied. I don't know if this would be the my best option but it's the only one that really makes me want to study again. But I'm not sure I should spend time reviewing the basic physics or if I should go directly to prepare the quantum and statistical physics part. Thank you
I got my PhD in Physics, specializing in solid-state physics, but took electives (undergrad and grad) in materials science and engineering. I was also a physics undergrad major at MIT waaay back when.

If you're following the MIT OCW program, you really should go through 8.01 (intro classical mechanics) and 8.02 (intro E&M) before starting 8.03 and then the quantum mechanics and statistical physics sequences. Prior to your master's work, I would also recommend that you take 8.223 (intermediate classical mechanics), 8.07 (intermediate E&M), and 8.231 (intro solid-state physics).
 
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CrysPhys said:
I got my PhD in Physics, specializing in solid-state physics, but took electives (undergrad and grad) in materials science and engineering. I was also a physics undergrad major at MIT waaay back when.

If you're following the MIT OCW program, you really should go through 8.01 (intro classical mechanics) and 8.02 (intro E&M) before starting 8.03 and then the quantum mechanics and statistical physics sequences. Prior to your master's work, I would also recommend that you take 8.223 (intermediate classical mechanics), 8.07 (intermediate E&M), and 8.231 (intro solid-state physics).
Yeah, I'm currently focused on 8.01-8.03 and then I'll continue with 8.04-8.06 and the statistical physics part, and also reviewing the math. I'll take into account the recommendations and probably I'll do mechanics II and electromagnetism II, and also I'll take into account the solid state physics part. Thanks for the recommendations!
 
WWGD said:
My recommendation is to not stick to methods such as building yourself strictly bottom-up, but rather picking up concepts from different perspectives : seeing applicatiins, top down, your own explorations, however tempting it may be to trying just bottom up.
I'm taking it easy, especially the most essential part of physics, because I would like to have a decent level of knowledge, then I will focus on applications. Thank you
 
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