Is it too late for me to pursue physics?

[dbush2765]

So long story short, I've already graduated from a technical college with an Associate's of Technology in Control Systems Technology (think industrial programming) with 85 credit hours in the bag and a 4.0. I'm currently working full time as a database administrator for a marketing company in St. Louis, Missouri.

I would love to get into the science field though. I've actually already applied and got accepted to University of Missouri - St. Louis, with physics as my declared major (unfortunately, only 34 of my 85 credit hours transferred over). I actually start my Calculus I class tonight. The plan is to get a BS in physics, and hopefully transition into astrophysics in grad school.

How likely is grad school for me though? I'm assuming it will take me longer than four years to get my BS, considering I'm at the mercy of night classes. When it comes time for the higher level courses, I can convince my boss to let me work from home a few days a week so I can take those classes, but I don't really have that option for these easier courses at the moment. Even this semester, I was hoping to take more classes, but Calc I was all I could get into since I was coming in at spring semester.

I'm absolutely determined to get a 4.0, but I'm afraid the time it will take for me to get the BS will be a red flag to grad schools. I'm just afraid of getting my hopes up, I guess.

 

[Vanadium 50]

Taking multiple years because you're part time is not a problem.

 

[dbush2765]

Taking multiple years because you're part time is not a problem.

Awesome, that's a huge relief. I had seen a few people mention that taking too long on a BS could be a red flag on a grad school application, so that's where the worry was coming from.

Thanks!

 

[jtbell]

That applies if you're a "traditional" full-time student. In that case, taking more than 4-5 years to finish a bachelor's degree (in the US) sometimes correlates with failing many courses and having to repeat them.

 

[Matrix0]

It is never too late to pursue your passion for physics! You have already shown dedication and hard work by achieving a 4.0 in your previous studies and being accepted into a university for a physics major. With your background in control systems technology, you may have a unique perspective and skill set that could be valuable in the physics field.

Graduate school is certainly a possibility for you, but it may take longer than four years to complete your undergraduate degree if you are limited to night classes. This should not be a deterrent, as many students take longer than four years to complete their degrees for various reasons. What is most important is your dedication and determination to learn and succeed in your studies.

As for the concern about a potential red flag for grad schools, admissions committees will consider many factors in addition to the time it took to complete your degree. They will also look at your academic performance, relevant experience, letters of recommendation, and your statement of purpose. If you continue to excel academically and showcase your passion for physics, it is possible to overcome any concerns about the length of time it took to complete your degree.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to follow your passion and pursue your goals. Do not let any perceived obstacles or concerns hold you back. With hard work and determination, you can achieve your dream of studying physics and possibly even transitioning into astrophysics in grad school. Best of luck to you in your academic journey!