Can a PhD be done after completing undergraduate?

[Wrichik Basu]

Say by the time I complete my undergraduate studies, I also complete topics taught in M.Sc. by myself. So, without formally doing an M.Sc., can I join PhD after B.Sc., given that I am sure that I am as able as a student who has formally completed masters?

My field of interest here is physics, and if chemistry, then only spectroscopy and related fields.

I know this is not possible here in India. Do you know of any university thst gives PhD opportunities to students without M.Sc.? I shall try to be ready to sit for the examinations/interviews they put forth to test me. If you know, what are the requirements I need to fulfill besides completing all topics taught in masters?

 

[CrysPhys]

In the US, it is common practice (there may be exceptions) to enter a PhD program in physics upon completion of a 4-yr undergraduate program. Assuming your undergrad program is equivalent to a US undergrad program (you need to check), you should be OK in applying.

 

[FactChecker]

Taking classes on the PhD track may not be a problem, but I would not consider that being in the "PhD program". There are usually some requirements for entry into a PhD program, such as passing preliminary tests. The next hurdle is that you would need to find a professor who is willing to work with you. I would be surprised if those requirements could be met so quickly. A recognized genius could probably do it.

 

[CrysPhys]

Taking classes on the PhD track may not be a problem, but I would not consider that being in the "PhD program". There are usually some requirements for entry into a PhD program, such as passing preliminary tests. The next hurdle is that you would need to find a professor who is willing to work with you. I would be surprised if those requirements could be met so quickly. A recognized genius could probably do it.

I think you are making a semantic distinction that is not observed in the US. Upon receiving a BS degree, you can apply either for an MS program or a PhD program in many universities (as always, exceptions apply). If accepted into the PhD program, successful completion of the PhD program requires successful completion of courses, passing certain exams, and successful completion of a PhD dissertation. This is not the case in other countries in which you must have received an MS before applying for a PhD program.

 

[FactChecker]

I think you are making a semantic distinction that is not observed in the US. Upon receiving a BS degree, you can apply either for an MS program or a PhD program in many universities (as always, exceptions apply). If accepted into the PhD program, successful completion of the PhD program requires successful completion of courses, passing certain exams, and successful completion of a PhD dissertation. This is not the case in other countries in which you must have received an MS before applying for a PhD program.

Ok. I'll buy that.

 

[ZapperZ]

https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/the-us-graduate-school-system/

Zz.

 

[Wrichik Basu]

In the US, it is common practice (there may be exceptions) to enter a PhD program in physics upon completion of a 4-yr undergraduate program. Assuming your undergrad program is equivalent to a US undergrad program (you need to check), you should be OK in applying.

Thanks. I'll check into the requirements.

 

[Wrichik Basu]

https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/the-us-graduate-school-system/

Zz.

Thanks.