M.S. Comp Sci thesis on Physical Science `

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A 25-year-old pursuing an M.S. in computer science, after a BA in Chemistry and a B.S. in Math with a concentration in Physics, is interested in a thesis related to computational physical science. The discussion highlights that a background in science and engineering is beneficial for programming jobs, and such positions exist without a PhD, particularly in technical calculations and modeling. Taking additional physical science classes can be helpful if they align with personal interests. However, the value of a thesis is primarily in demonstrating relevant skills rather than academic merit, as employers focus on practical knowledge applicable to the job. The conversation also raises concerns about the need for academic supervision and the importance of job market location.
Mizt
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Hello, I'm new.

I'm 25 yrs old and am currently doing a M.S. in comp sci (after a BA in Chemistry/B.S. in math and concentration in physics).

My prof mainly wanted to go for Physical Chemistry; which as alluring as it may be, does not seem viable outside academia.

Thus, I chose comp sci and would like to do a thesis that pertains to computational physical science.

My questions are as follows:
1) I really want to work in a scientific/engineering -type programming/software engineering job. Will my background + a thesis in this help?
2) Do such jobs exists without PhD ?
3) Would it help to take an addition Physical science class? (for example Theorhetical Mechanics/Math Physics/E&M) to widen my underlying knowledge?
4) Is a thesis worth it, if I can't find a job within these specialties? I.E. will it demonstrate hard-work/ability to grasp complex matters?

Thank you,
Michael
 
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Mizt said:
1) I really want to work in a scientific/engineering -type programming/software engineering job. Will my background + a thesis in this help?

Background and skills/knowledge definitely help and are required. Thesis may help, but it's not that important unless you're doing it to solve a problem for a company for example.

Mizt said:
2) Do such jobs exists without PhD ?

Yes. The industry makes use of technical calculation and modelling. There are also some software jobs in scientific research and stuff like weather prediction and operations research.

Mizt said:
3) Would it help to take an addition Physical science class? (for example Theorhetical Mechanics/Math Physics/E&M) to widen my underlying knowledge?

If it interests you.

Mizt said:
4) Is a thesis worth it, if I can't find a job within these specialties? I.E. will it demonstrate hard-work/ability to grasp complex matters?

An employer is primarily interested in that you can do something that contributes to the revenue. It hasn't got much, if anything to do with academic merits or the ability to study hard and pass exams. What matters is that you know the stuff well that you need to know to do the job the you're applying for.
 
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Mizt said:
Hello, I'm new.

I'm 25 yrs old and am currently doing a M.S. in comp sci (after a BA in Chemistry/B.S. in math and concentration in physics).

My prof mainly wanted to go for Physical Chemistry; which as alluring as it may be, does not seem viable outside academia.

Thus, I chose comp sci and would like to do a thesis that pertains to computational physical science.

Back up a bit. There are several unclear points here that you neglected to mention.

1. "My prof" person, is this your academic advisor?

2. How are you able to do whatever you wish without consulting him/her and getting his/her approval? Where exactly do you going to school that you are able to get away with such a thing? Don't you need someone to supervise your thesis AND sign-off on it?

3. Being able to find a job is location dependent. A Ph.D in nanotechnology may be in-demand in silicon valley, but it is utterly useless in the Congo. You neglected to indicate where you are, or where you will be seeking a job.

Zz.
 
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