Purdue vs UVa vs IU: Best School for Physics Grad Degree?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on selecting the best institution for a graduate degree in physics, comparing Purdue University, the University of Virginia (UVA), and Indiana University (IU) Bloomington. Participants highlight that all three schools have respectable undergraduate programs and active particle physics research groups. Cost considerations are emphasized, particularly regarding potential student loans and financial aid. A new contender, the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass), is introduced as a viable option due to a full scholarship offer, raising questions about its comparative standing with the other institutions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of particle physics and its relevance in graduate studies.
  • Familiarity with financial aid processes and implications of student loans.
  • Knowledge of undergraduate physics programs and their impact on graduate school readiness.
  • Awareness of research opportunities within physics departments at major universities.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the particle physics research groups at Purdue, UVA, IU Bloomington, and UMass Amherst.
  • Investigate financial aid options and loan implications for graduate students in physics.
  • Explore the honors college program at UMass Amherst and its benefits for physics students.
  • Compare the undergraduate physics curricula of Purdue, UVA, IU Bloomington, and UMass Amherst.
USEFUL FOR

Prospective physics graduate students, academic advisors, and anyone evaluating undergraduate physics programs for future graduate studies.

Mn74332
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I need some insight! I will be transferring with the goal of an eventual graduate degree in physics. Which of these schools is the best for physics? Uva will provide the best aid for me... Ps it's iu Bloomington.
 
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What field are you interested in?
 
Arsenic&Lace said:
What field are you interested in?
Particle physics, though I was under the impression the concentration didn't matter for undergrad. Mostly concerned with getting immersed in a good program and have a solid foundation.
 
I'm pretty sure all three schools have particle physics research groups. As far as I know, all three have respectable undergraduate programs which can provide a solid foundation for grad school. Cost should definitely be a major consideration, especially if you'll need to take out loans. If you go on to grad school, you'll probably be supported as a TA or RA, but you won't be paying back your previous loans very fast (if at all!), and the interest will tend to accumulate.
 
Thanks for your replies. I just got a full ride to umass Amherst, which I wast really considering before but this offer sparked my interest. How does Umass compare to the previous three (I was invited to the honors college if that makes a difference)?
 

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