MPhys Physics 2:2 Reputation - Is it worth Resitting?

  • Thread starter Thread starter santiago100
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Physics
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the implications of achieving a 2:2 degree classification in MPhys Physics and whether it is advisable to resit the final year to aim for a 2:1. Participants explore the perceived value of a 2:2 in the job market, particularly in relation to pursuing further education or entering the corporate world.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about the reputation of a 2:2 in the job market and questions whether resitting the final year for a 2:1 is worthwhile.
  • Another participant suggests that making up the 4% needed for a 2:1 should be feasible, given that the final year carries more weight in the overall classification.
  • A different viewpoint indicates that for those not pursuing a PhD, a 2:2 may not significantly hinder career prospects, particularly in corporate roles.
  • Some participants note that while big companies may prefer candidates with a 2:1, individuals with a 2:2 can still find decent jobs, especially if they can effectively communicate their qualifications.
  • One participant shares their personal experience of improving from a 51% aggregate in the third year to achieving a 2:1 overall, emphasizing that consistent effort can lead to better outcomes.
  • There is a suggestion that pursuing an MSc could be a viable option for those who end up with a 2:2, although concerns about funding through student loans are raised.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the implications of achieving a 2:2 degree. While some believe it can limit opportunities, others argue that it may not be as detrimental, particularly for those not seeking academic advancement. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best course of action for someone in this situation.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention varying weightings of years in their degree classifications, which may influence their perspectives on the feasibility of improving grades. There are also references to personal experiences that highlight the variability in outcomes based on individual effort and circumstances.

santiago100
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Hi guys. I am in the UK currently about to enter my fourth and final year towards a degree in MPhys Physics and I am about 4% away from a 2:1. So at the minute I am on a 2:2 but I am wondering just how well thought of a 2:2 in MPhys is in the 'big bad world'?

If I did get a 2:2 would I be best resitting my final year until I got a 2:1??

Thanks
Santi
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I'm pretty certain you should really try and make up that 4% this year. Where I am (Durham) the fourth year is worth 30% more (to a physicist's approximation!) than the third year, so 4% shouldn't be that hard to make up (that it's your fourthyear notwithstanding!).
 
muppet said:
I'm pretty certain you should really try and make up that 4% this year. Where I am (Durham) the fourth year is worth 30% more (to a physicist's approximation!) than the third year, so 4% shouldn't be that hard to make up (that it's your fourthyear notwithstanding!).

Our second year was 15%, third was 35% and this year is 50% so its all to play for ;-) But as a guideline how much in the s**t would I be if I got a 2:2, I mean taking a career as an accountant for example?

Obviously big companies who ask for a 2:1 would say no but I be massively hindered?

Thanks
Santi
 
santiago: depends, are you going to get a phd? then you should really try hard to get a first. If you're only going into corporate life, it isn't that much hassle really. Your world won't go under for getting a second. It's always what you do right about now in the moment of your life that is interesting.
 
santiago100 said:
Obviously big companies who ask for a 2:1 would say no but I be massively hindered?

Exactly: you probably won't get a place in graduate schemes with a 2:2 (although you could, of course, try and sell how you really have a master's degree and it's more difficult, etc. etc.) I know people who graduated with 2:2 degrees and have pretty decent jobs now (they didn't graduate in physics, though.)

Of course, since you only have 4% to get, and your final year counts more, it is definitely a good idea to aim for that 2:1, as it is well within reach.
 
Last edited:
I was in a similar but worse position this year (4th year Physics MSci), I had 51% aggregate mark after my third year, and still managed to get a 2:1 overall by getting a 1st this year.

I was amazed to find I had done well as I never felt like I had got to grips with the subject as I imagined a 1st student would have. But it was just resonable hard work all year, nothing over the top, just keeping on top of things. I just made sure I was doing the module coursework to at least 50% during the year and going over unfamiliar things when they came up and that's it.

I really can't stress enough how far a little hard work can go in this subject. It's not a question of interlect.

As I was prepared for a 2:2 i was thinking of doing an MSc, I think that's the best long term option if you get a 2:2 and you can afford it (student loans won't accommodate you I don't think). I know people with 3rds and 2:2s Bsc and Msci who got onto Msc Physics.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K