Physics Grad Schools in Nashville, TN

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the availability of graduate physics programs in Nashville, TN, particularly focusing on theoretical physics. Participants explore options at local universities, the necessity of pursuing a PhD for a career in theoretical physics, and personal circumstances influencing educational choices.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses interest in pursuing a graduate degree in theoretical physics and inquires about local programs, specifically mentioning Vanderbilt University.
  • Another participant notes that Vanderbilt is the only institution in the Nashville area offering a PhD in physics, while questioning the existence of a master's program at Tennessee State University.
  • A third participant confirms that Fisk University only offers a master's of arts and highlights the limited options in Nashville for reputable physics graduate programs.
  • Some participants suggest that for a career in theoretical physics, a PhD is essential, while an MS may not hold significant value in that field.
  • One participant mentions personal constraints that limit their ability to apply to programs outside Nashville, indicating a preference for a master's degree due to plans to relocate abroad.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that Vanderbilt is the primary option for a PhD in physics in Nashville, but there is disagreement regarding the value of an MS for a career in theoretical physics. Some participants emphasize the necessity of a PhD, while others acknowledge personal circumstances that may lead to pursuing an MS instead.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the implications of geographic limitations on educational choices and the varying requirements for graduate programs in different countries, particularly regarding the necessity of a master's degree before pursuing a doctorate.

mbrmbrg
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I think I'd like to go to grad school for theoretical physics, and I'll be in Nashville next year (and 1-4? years after that). Right now, I'm looking at http://www.vanderbilt.edu/physics/graduate" .

Does anyone have any info about these schools?

Also, I'm kind of surprised that I can't find any other universities in the Nashville area that have physics graduate programs. Does anyone know of any others?

Thanks so much!
 
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On;y Vanderbilt offers the PhD. I'm not sure Tennessee State even has an MS program. If you want to do theory, you need a PhD.

There are only 189 physics PhD programs in the country. There aren't many cities that have more than a few programs.
 
Fisk University's program site only mentions a master's of arts (MA not MS). I saw no graduate work on Tennessee State's site. I concur that in the Nashville area, the only program of possible good reputation is Vandy's.

Honestly, if you are looking to do theoretical physics at the Ph.D. level, you need to look at a variety of programs around the country and try to find the best ones where your application would still be competitive (and apply to a number of them). Ph.D.'s typically take 5-7 years if you are at it full-time (typically you are offered stipends of some form so you can be at it full-time). This advice is, of course, if you are planning to pursue a career in theoretical physics of some form, not just dabble in a course or two or do it at a snail's pace for self-edification while you're committed to other pursuits.

I realize, of course, that there can be familial or other obligations that keep one in a given geographic region... but don't do that to yourself until you're absolutely committed to that track.
 
Hm, consensus seems to tell me to get off my butt and finish that Vandy application. Darn.
I'd love to be able to flit around, but that's not really an option.
Since I plan to be in Nashville for less than 5-7 years, I figured I'd go for a masters degree, and then either a job or PhD.
Thanks, people! :smile:
 
If you're interested in theory, I'm afraid an MS is not terribly valuable. You really need a PhD for that career path.
 
Yes, I figured that. But I don't plan on being in America long enough to get a PhD, and it seems that Israeli universities require a masters before a doctorate. Hence the MS plan.
 

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