Open University - BSc Mathematics and Physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the value and implications of pursuing a BSc in Mathematics and Physics through Open University. Participants explore personal motivations, potential benefits, and the practicality of such a degree in relation to future academic and career opportunities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that obtaining a second degree in mathematics could be beneficial, provided it does not hinder progress in physics.
  • Others express that personal edification is a valid motivation for pursuing studies at Open University.
  • There are suggestions that Open University offers good programs, though earning a bachelor's degree through this method may be seen as unusual compared to traditional universities.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of understanding personal motivations and potential obstacles to completing a degree.
  • Another participant advocates for pursuing an Open Degree to allow flexibility in module selection, arguing that the degree's title may not significantly impact future opportunities.
  • A participant shares a personal experience of being accepted into traditional physics Master's programs after completing a BSc Open, indicating that this path can lead to further academic opportunities.
  • There is a question raised about the acceptance of Open University graduates into PhD programs, indicating uncertainty about this pathway.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of views on the value of an Open University degree, with some supporting its merits while others question its conventional acceptance in academia. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of such a degree for PhD admissions.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention varying experiences and perceptions of Open University programs, highlighting that acceptance into further academic pursuits may depend on individual circumstances and specific universities.

Gimblestitch
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Good, bad or indifferent? Any ideas or suggestions?

Gimblestitch
 
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I'm kind of in the same boat, kind of not. I don't believe getting a second degree in math is bad as long as it doesn't interfere with actually getting a degree in physics, or vice versa. In fact it might even be beneficial. As one of my graduate physics mentor stated: "You can never have too much math."
 
Hey Gimblestitch.

What exactly do you want to aim for regarding study and (possible) future endeavors?
 
chiro said:
Hey Gimblestitch.

What exactly do you want to aim for regarding study and (possible) future endeavors?
I am interested in personal edification mostly.
 
Gimblestitch said:
I am interested in personal edification mostly.
That is something that Open University is good for. Some good objective programs are available through Open University systems but using such a method to earn a bachelor's degree is or seems unusual. More likely you could find a certificate program in some of these systems. You are more likely to find your undergraduate program in a regular university admission situation.
 
I think some good questions to ask would be what would motivate you to start and what would get in your way to not make you finish.

If you have a good idea of what makes you start and a good idea of what would prevent you from finishing then you will understand pretty well how likely you are to get through something.
 
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Gimblestitch said:
I am interested in personal edification mostly.

You may as well go for an Open Degree. No need to restrict your choice of modules and as far as I can tell, the name of the degree makes no practical difference.

I would highly recommend the mathematics and physics modules at the Open University. I did my first degree there (BSc Open) and was subsequently accepted into (traditional) physics Masters programmes at top universities. I also know that I am not an exception.
 
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Independent said:
You may as well go for an Open Degree. No need to restrict your choice of modules and as far as I can tell, the name of the degree makes no practical difference.

I would highly recommend the mathematics and physics modules at the Open University. I did my first degree there (BSc Open) and was subsequently accepted into (traditional) physics Masters programmes at top universities. I also know that I am not an exception.

Independent, thanks for the great data point. Do you mind me asking what Universities accepted you as an Open University Graduate in Physics? Do you think there is any chance of being accepted directly into a PhD program?
 

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