Programs Importance of specialization during masters/phd

[marsdk]

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

 

[marsdk]

Does anyone have anything to say in this? I am quite interested in oppinions on the matter