Is a Master's in Carbon Management Enough to Pursue a PhD in Geophysics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the adequacy of a Master's in Carbon Management for pursuing a PhD in Geophysics. Participants explore the relevance of Richard's current academic background and its alignment with the requirements of various PhD programs, particularly in relation to physics and earth sciences.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Richard expresses uncertainty about whether his MSc in Carbon Management will be considered sufficient preparation for a PhD in Geophysics.
  • One participant suggests that many departments may expect applicants to have the equivalent of a physics major, as geophysics is often associated with physics departments.
  • Another participant notes that in the U.S., geophysics is typically housed within geology or earth science departments, which may have more lenient preparation requirements compared to physics departments.
  • This participant also mentions that backgrounds of current PhD students in geophysics vary widely, including fields such as physics, computer science, chemistry, engineering, and economics.
  • It is suggested that having coding experience could be a significant asset for applicants.
  • There is a recognition that the adequacy of Richard's background may depend on the specific classes he is taking in his MSc program.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the adequacy of Richard's Master's program for PhD admission depends on the specific department and its requirements. Multiple competing views exist regarding the necessary background for geophysics programs, particularly between institutions in Europe and the U.S.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions about departmental requirements and the variability in student backgrounds that may influence admission decisions. Specific course requirements and the weight given to different academic backgrounds remain unresolved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering a transition from a non-traditional background into geophysics or related fields, as well as those interested in the intersection of environmental studies and geophysical sciences.

RC92
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Hi everyone,

I'm currently doing an MSc in Carbon Management at the University of Edinburgh, and have decided that I enjoy the geophysics aspects (renewable energies, etc.) more than the economics/policy aspects in which I have undergraduate experience.

Given this, I'd like to pursue a PhD in geophysics, but am unsure whether my masters is likely to be considered adequate preparation. I have tried contacting potential departments, but can't seem to get a straight answer.

Any advice would be appreciated

Thanks,

Richard :)
 
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I think this is one of those cases where it depends on the department, but I suspect in the majority of cases they'll be looking for you to have the equivalent of a physics major. Geophysics is typically a branch of the physics department. The students have to take some core physics courses and write the comprehensive examination just like all the other physics students, so if you're applying to one of those programs they'll be incorporating the probability of you passing those as part of your admission assessment.
 
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Sometimes it's tough to discern the meaning when folks are unresponsive to inquiries. After enough lack of response, I tend to form a working hypothesis that they are not interested and move to other pastures.
 
I think it depends on where you're doing your PhD as well. As Choppy said, some institutions will lump geophysics into the physics department, particularly in Europe. In the U.S. however, geophysics is almost always in a geology/earth science department which are typically much more lenient in terms of preparation. I'm currently doing a PhD in geophysics and people's backgrounds vary greatly. Most have Earth science backgrounds, but others such as myself came from physics, computer science, chemistry, engineering, or even economics. I think the basic requirement in the U.S. is several semesters of chemistry, physics, and maths. If you have coding experience, that will also be a huge asset.

Depending on the classes you're taking in your MSc, I think your background should be sufficient for most programs. Good luck!
 
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