Physics - Imperial College London vs Durham University

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision between attending Imperial College London and Durham University for a Physics degree. Imperial is recognized for its prestigious academic standing and strong job prospects due to its location in London, while Durham offers a supportive collegiate system that fosters social connections. Key considerations include the importance of finding a suitable research advisor and the differing lifestyles associated with each university. Ultimately, both institutions provide excellent Physics programs, but the choice should align with personal preferences for social life and academic focus.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of university ranking systems and their impact on career prospects.
  • Familiarity with the collegiate system and its benefits for social integration.
  • Knowledge of the importance of research advisors in academic success.
  • Awareness of lifestyle differences between urban and collegiate environments.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Physics departments at Imperial College London and Durham University.
  • Investigate the role of research advisors in academic programs.
  • Explore the social life and extracurricular activities available at both universities.
  • Analyze job placement statistics for Physics graduates from both institutions.
USEFUL FOR

Prospective Physics students, academic advisors, and individuals evaluating university choices based on lifestyle and academic reputation.

vedderfan94
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So I really need some advice on whether to pick Imperial or Durham as my firm because I'm torn between the two.

I really liked Durham and the collegiate system because it would probably be easier to make more friends this way. It also has a very good Physics department.

I always read though that Imperial is one of the best for science/engineering and is often compared with Oxford for Physics, and I'd generally be better off with regards to job prospects due to the city, contacts, etc. Although the downsides are the cost and the gender ratio (and the huge 'geekyness' too). There are also some complaints about the social life at Imperial but I'm not sure if I'd just be picking Durham for the social life.

Advice is appreciated :confused:
 
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Hi,
I think that depends on your research area, you must looking for appropriate advisor, because all your works will be with him/her.
imperial College occupied a prestigious position in the academic level .
you want first to looking for your best advisor and research group and after that you looking for you more comfortable place that you love.
 
Hi,
I think that depends on your research area, you must looking for appropriate advisor, because all your works will be with him/her.
imperial College occupied a prestigious position in the academic level .
you want first to looking for your best advisor and research group and after that you looking for you more comfortable place that you love.
 
What sort of jobs are you looking at?

In terms of lifestyle, the two couldn't be more different - one is a pretty (fairly) old university in a university town, and the other is in one of the biggest cities in the world. Choosing what sort of lifestyle you want as a student should be the main driver behind your decision, as they are both very, very good for physics.

And lastly, you cannot complain Imperial being a sausage-fest when it's in London. You aren't limited to just students of Imperial, you know, when you're in London. Imperial also has a surprisingly high http://www.studentbeans.com/student101/a/relationships/university-sex1244.html, too, so some people must be getting it on.

Whilst Imperial has a reputation for being quite nerdy, there are definitely still quite a lot of students who like to party there.
 

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