Quantum optics for graduate students

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the appropriateness of enrolling in a graduate-level quantum optics course after completing an undergraduate electromagnetism course. Participants explore concerns regarding the advanced nature of the subject, the participant's current academic workload, and the implications of pursuing additional courses.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about the difficulty of the quantum optics course, given their recent completion of an electromagnetism course and their upcoming schedule, which includes quantum mechanics and research on string theory.
  • Another participant suggests that the individual has ample time if they intend to take the proposed classes, questioning the use of "pretend" instead of "intend."
  • A third participant questions the appropriateness of taking a graduate-level course without prior undergraduate quantum mechanics, suggesting that it may be beneficial to wait until after completing those courses.
  • Another participant emphasizes that graduate courses typically require more effort than undergraduate courses and advises discussing prerequisites with the professor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether it is advisable to enroll in the graduate course without prior quantum mechanics knowledge. There is no consensus on the best course of action, as concerns about workload and preparedness are raised.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the potential need for foundational knowledge in quantum mechanics and solid-state physics before tackling the quantum optics course. There is uncertainty regarding the specific prerequisites and the expected workload of graduate courses.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering advanced courses in quantum optics or related fields, particularly those transitioning from undergraduate to graduate studies in physics.

LCSphysicist
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I have just finished my course on electromagnetism. Due to my performance, the professor has contact me for congratulations and asking, if i want, to join his quantum optics course for graduate students.

Even so i think it is interesting to follow the advice, i am a little afraid if this subject is too advanced. To be honest, optics always has been my executioner, and i pretend to take quantum mechanics I and II + undergrad research on string theory next semester, so i will not have too much time. What do you think?

I think this contact with professors can help to improve my experience and career. Since i am not a popular student at the departament, i am afraid this can be a negative point in future opportunities, since i have almost no "important contacts".
 
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LCSphysicist said:
and i pretend to take quantum mechanics I and II + undergrad research on string theory next semester, so i will not have too much time
If you pretend to take those classes, you will have all the time in the world :)
I think you mean to say "intend".
Undergrad research on string theory sounds fun! Let me know what kind of project you will be doing.

I think you should do things you think are fun. Why are you not a popular student? Is there something else you can do about it?
 
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LCSphysicist said:
I have just finished my course on electromagnetism. Due to my performance, the professor has contact me for congratulations and asking, if i want, to join his quantum optics course for graduate students.
Congrats on the good performance in the class and the recognition from the professor. But to be clear -- this was an undergraduate EM course and your prof knows you are an undergrad, and he is still asking if you would like to join his graduate-level quantum optics course? Perhaps tell him you are interested, and ask if it would be better to join after you take those two intro QM courses coming up?
 
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Yeah. Just doesn't sound right. A grad-level quantum optics course without first taking undergrad quantum mechanics? And depending on the emphasis of the quantum optics course (even at the advanced undergrad level), often you will take intro to solid-state physics first. Also be aware that grad courses typically take more work (a lot more work) than an undergrad course. So it will be easy to overload yourself. Have a thorough discussion with your professor concerning prerequisites.
 
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