Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the feasibility of pursuing a Ph.D. in physics after completing a bachelor's degree in engineering, particularly in the context of international students facing challenges in accessing physics programs in the USA. The scope includes concerns about funding, assistantships, and the transition from engineering to theoretical physics fields like string theory and loop quantum gravity (LQG).
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Homework-related
Main Points Raised
- One participant expresses a strong desire to become a physicist but is concerned about the quality of physics education in their home country and the difficulty of gaining admission to U.S. colleges.
- Another participant clarifies that post-doctoral positions are available after completing a Ph.D. and emphasizes the importance of funding for Ph.D. programs in STEM fields, suggesting that students should seek funded positions.
- A later reply questions the possibility of pursuing a Ph.D. in string theory or LQG after obtaining a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, indicating uncertainty about the transition from engineering to theoretical physics.
- One participant references a previous thread that may contain useful information regarding similar questions about transitioning from engineering to physics graduate programs.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on the specific challenges of transitioning from engineering to physics or the availability of assistantships, indicating that multiple views and uncertainties remain in the discussion.
Contextual Notes
There are limitations regarding the assumptions about funding availability and the prerequisites for entering theoretical physics fields from an engineering background, which are not fully explored in the discussion.