Returning to Physics: Study plan?

[Emir Shark]

Hi all,

I am completely new to this forum. So allow me to introduce myself. I am currently paving my career as a mathematician, particularly in the field of probability theory and financial mathematics. I am currently pursuing a PhD in this subject and could not help but notice how closely related this field is to physics (i.e. statistical mechanics).

I have taken a few physics courses in the past and have always been fascinated by the subject. It has been a few years (probably 8 or 9 years) since I have taken a physics course. I have a soft spot for this subject and I although it is not related to my thesis, I would still like to learn it, out of passion and hopes that I can somehow apply it in my career one day.

My question is: is there a way I can re-learn physics? Keep in mind I am REALLY rusty and would probably need to go back to Square 1. Below is a break-down of what I have taken and what I am interested in.

Courses taken in the past:

Physics I : Newtonian mechanics, forces, .
Physics II: Wave mechanics, electromagnetism, oscillations, etc.
Modern Physics: Introduction to Special Relativity, Quantum Mechanics

What I am interested in:

Classical Physics
Electromagnetism
Relativity (Special & General)
Quantum Mechanics

I am particularly interested in the theoretical aspects of physics and I quite enjoy solving problems. Perhaps I need some suggestion on the following:

1. What is an appropriate study plan I can take with regards to course structure? Can I apply physics somehow in my research?

2. I don't want to just read textbooks. Can someone recommend some online program (not necessarily a degree) that I can pursue perhaps over the course of a year or so that can get me acquainted once again with these topics?

Thanks,

EM

 

[jedishrfu]

I would look into the Leonard Susskind online video series The Theoretical Minimum where he tries to teach upper level undergrad physics to rusty folks who have an interest but who have forgotten a lot of what they learned.

You can find out more at his website:

http://theoreticalminimum.com/

 

[Emir Shark]

Thanks for the link! I think this is what I am looking for.