Queen's for Master's? Pros & Cons

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision-making process for pursuing a Master's degree in physics, specifically comparing Queen's University and the University of British Columbia (UBC). The participant has received an offer from Queen's to work on the SNO+ project, highlighting the financial advantages of living in Kingston, where the cost of living is significantly lower than in Vancouver. Additionally, the reduced teaching assistantship hours at Queen's (108 hours per semester) compared to UBC (160 hours per semester) allows for more personal study time. The participant also emphasizes the challenges of urban living and housing constraints near UBC, particularly regarding pet-friendly accommodations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of graduate physics programs and their structures
  • Knowledge of financial implications of living in different cities
  • Familiarity with teaching assistantship roles and responsibilities
  • Awareness of housing market dynamics in Kingston and Vancouver
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the SNO+ project and its significance in nuclear physics
  • Explore the graduate program requirements and faculty at Queen's University
  • Investigate the cost of living and housing options in Kingston
  • Compare the academic and social environments of Queen's University and UBC
USEFUL FOR

Prospective graduate students in physics, especially those weighing options between universities, financial considerations, and lifestyle preferences in different cities.

Sabariel
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I'm just finishing up my undergrad physics with a specialization in nuclear and particle physics. Looking forward to grad school.

Does Queen's have a good graduate physics program?

Background:

I've received what looks like a great offer from Queen's for my Master's, working on the SNO+ project. I've also applied at UBC because of TRIUMF.

Now, I know UBC is highly ranked. But there are other factors in this decision.

On the financial side, cost of living in Kingston is about half that of Vancouver. I'm a homebody, so I'm not worried about the lack of "things to do" in Kingston. Throw in the huge difference in TA hour requirements (108hrs/semester at Queen's vs about 160hrs/semester at UBC), and that means a lot less first year labs to grade, which means more time for my own studies.

Also, I'm not good with big cities. I have a couple cats that I'm not willing to give up, and it's impossible to find housing near UBC campus that allows pets. So I'd be looking at a 90 minute commute from Surrey or Burnaby, which is less than appealing. In the middle of winter, I found 6 apartments under $800 within walking distance to Queen's. I assume that would go up in the summer.
 
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Yes, SNO+ is a very prestigious project, and Kingston is a wonderful city to live in, despite what the Toronto kids will tell you.
 

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