Opinions All British Theoretical Physicists

In summary, the speaker is currently applying for 1 year postgraduate courses in Theoretical Physics at Durham, Imperial College London, and Kings College London in the UK. The aim is to go on to a PhD after completing one of these courses. They are seeking advice on which course would be most beneficial for their CV and considered the best place to learn. They mention that university league tables are not helpful in making this decision. The speaker is leaning towards Durham because their classes cover a broader spectrum. Another person in the conversation is also applying for postgraduate courses and is trying to choose between the "Quantum Fields and Fundamental Forces" course at Imperial or the Mathematical Tripos Part III at Cambridge. The Imperial course is highly regarded for theoretical physicists
  • #1
sox
5
0
I'm currently applying for 1 year postgraduate courses in Theoretical Physics at the following universities in the UK:

Durham - Physics Department

Imperial College London - Physics Department

Kings College London - Maths Department

The aim is to hopefully go on to a PhD after one of these courses.

I was wondering if anyone had any advice on choosing?

Like, which would be most useful on my CV for applying for PhD's? and which is considered the best place to learn?

University league tables aren't particularly useful in determining which is the best institution.

Any opinions from those in the know would be appreciated.

At the moment I'm swaying towards Durham because the classes cover a broader spectrum.

Opinions?

Thanks in advance.

sox :)
 
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  • #2
I have also applied for postgraduate courses this year in the UK. I have to choose now between either the "Quantum Fields and Fundamental Forces" course at Imperial, or the Mathematical Tripos Part III at Cambridge. I think for theoretical physicists, intending to go into quantum field theory, particle physics and related fields, the course at Imperial is highly regarded. It is also more famous than Durham and Kings, so I guess it would look better on your CV. But if you're going onto a Ph.D, then I don't think that aspect would matter much compared to your performance.
 
  • #3
Yeah, It's the Quantum Fields and Fundamental Forces Course I'll be applying to as well (this week in fact).

The course at durham seems to offer a brooader range of classes than the imperial course. Alot of them concerned with different types or aspects of filed theory. That might interest you if your looking for a degree that focusses on that.
 

1. What is the significance of the "All British" label in the title?

The term "All British" refers to the fact that the theoretical physicists mentioned in the title are all from the United Kingdom. This distinguishes them from other physicists from different countries and highlights the contributions of British scientists to the field of theoretical physics.

2. Who are some of the most notable British theoretical physicists?

Some of the most notable British theoretical physicists include Stephen Hawking, Paul Dirac, and Peter Higgs. These scientists have made significant contributions to our understanding of the universe and have won numerous awards and accolades for their work.

3. What are some common opinions held by British theoretical physicists?

While opinions may vary among individual physicists, some common views among British theoretical physicists include a belief in the power of mathematics to explain the physical world, a strong emphasis on rigorous and precise reasoning, and a focus on fundamental theories and concepts rather than practical applications.

4. How have British theoretical physicists impacted the field of physics?

British theoretical physicists have had a significant impact on the field of physics, with many groundbreaking discoveries and theories attributed to them. For example, Stephen Hawking's work on black holes and the Big Bang has revolutionized our understanding of the universe, while Paul Dirac's contributions to quantum mechanics have paved the way for important technological advancements.

5. What current research is being conducted by British theoretical physicists?

There is a wide range of current research being conducted by British theoretical physicists, including studies on dark matter and dark energy, attempts to unify the theories of gravity and quantum mechanics, and investigations into the nature of the early universe. These scientists continue to push the boundaries of our knowledge and inspire new generations of physicists to explore the mysteries of the universe.

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