More formal education later in career

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the considerations of pursuing formal education in physics later in one's career, particularly after having already obtained advanced degrees in electrical engineering. Participants explore the motivations for further education, the potential benefits of structured learning versus self-study, and the implications of pursuing a degree versus taking individual courses as a non-degree seeking student.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to pursue more formal education in physics, considering a Master's degree while reflecting on their career in electrical engineering and sensor signal processing.
  • Another participant questions the necessity of obtaining a Master's degree, suggesting that taking classes as a non-degree seeking student could be a viable alternative.
  • A later reply acknowledges the benefits of the non-degree route, such as flexibility and ease of enrollment, while also recognizing the structure and accountability that a degree program might provide.
  • Some participants note the availability of online resources that could make pursuing a degree less appealing compared to self-study or informal learning.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether to pursue a Master's degree or take classes as a non-degree seeking student, with multiple viewpoints presented regarding the benefits and drawbacks of each approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying degrees of interest in formal education, with some emphasizing the importance of structure and accountability, while others highlight the ease and flexibility of non-degree options. The discussion reflects differing personal priorities and motivations for further education.

whoohm
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I'm curious to get your thoughts and learn if anyone else has a similar path.

I'm 20+ years into my career and have a BSc Physics, MSc and PhD in EE. I always wanted to pursue a PhD in Physics but opportunities and life circumstances took me to EE (which I also really loved). My career in areas of sensor signal processing has been enjoyable overall and I have worked at good companies and even started and exited my own company. I am now back at a company I perviously worked at and have a lot of freedom to choose/create projects, etc. I also get the opportunity to mentor others, which I really enjoy.

I'm seriously interested in pursuing more Physics education. Yes, I can (and do) study on my own, but I also enjoy the structure and achievement of taking a formal course. I also often gain a new perspective from an instructor. I don't really think I need another PhD since I already know how to do research, write, present new work, etc. However, I'm thinking a MS in Physics would be fun. Maybe if there was a research area or lab that I was really interested in I could pursue a PhD in Physics. I certainly have areas of strong interest - quantum sensing, etc.

Has anyone on this forum pursued more formal education after a PhD or after many years in industry? Do you regret spending time on learning vs enjoying another hobby or just relaxing? Not sure why I seem to always want to push against something even when there are no financial reasons. Curious to hear your stories if you have a few minutes.
 
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Why get an MS? Why not take classes as a non-degree seeking student?
 
Vanadium 50 said:
Why get an MS? Why not take classes as a non-degree seeking student?
That's also a good idea and would give me option to pick anything interesting and not worry about degree requirements. Pursuing the degree does provide some structure and a little extra accountability and more precisely defines a goal. I figure if I have to pay for the courses anyway it is worth getting a degree. Otherwise not a lot different than self study. Of course, there are a lot of resources available online these days (MIT open courses, etc.) that make paying for a degree less attractive. I could just donate some funds to those open programs and enjoy. Obviously thinking out loud here...thanks!
 
If you go the degree route, you need to deal with applications and admissions and the like. With the non-degree route, you just open your checkbook and you're in. Easy as pie.

Nothing stops you from taking the same classes as in the degree program.
 
Vanadium 50 said:
If you go the degree route, you need to deal with applications and admissions and the like. With the non-degree route, you just open your checkbook and you're in. Easy as pie.

Nothing stops you from taking the same classes as in the degree program.
Good points. Less process is attractive at this point in my life. Thanks for the suggestions.
 

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