Programs Importance of specialization during masters/phd

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Specialization during a master's or Ph.D. can significantly impact future opportunities in academia and research. Transitioning from a master's in condensed matter physics to a Ph.D. in elementary particles is feasible, but it may require demonstrating relevant skills and knowledge. Engaging in diverse coursework during a master's can provide valuable insights, but it may limit the depth of specialization needed for competitive postdoctoral positions. The separation of master's and Ph.D. programs in Denmark emphasizes the importance of a strong master's foundation for future academic pursuits. Ultimately, balancing exploration with focused study is crucial for long-term success in the field of physics.
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My main question is: When I get a masters in physics and write my thesis in, say condensed matter physics - how are the options of changing area, and maybe apply for a Ph.D. in some other field of physics, maybe elementary particles?

And later on, if I choose to do my Ph.D in one subject, how are ones chances of getting a post doc in another field of physics?

------I ask because I am currently at a Technical Institute studying for a BA in Engineering Physics. My school does not offer a general physics degree, and therefore I can't try out subjects like particle physics, nuclear physics etc. at my school - the courses simply aren't offered.

As of now, I really miss learning about topics like that, so I am thinking about taking my masters at a university where I can get to try these topics. However, if I use my courses during my masters to shop around and see what I like, I'll hardly get the time to really specialize, and I am concerned about whether that will prove a problem later on.

In Denmark where I live, the masters and the Ph.D are completely separate programs, almost everyone takes a master, since a BA alone gives very little job opportunities here.

Thank you in advance for any shared thoughts,
Mikkel
 
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Does anyone have anything to say in this? I am quite interested in oppinions on the matter
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...

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