To go from a Psychology degree to Physics? (In UK)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on transitioning from a BSc (Hons) Psychology degree to pursuing a career in Physics, specifically Astrophysics, in the UK. The individual achieved a 2.1 in Psychology and is exploring options such as a foundation year, a second Bachelor's degree, or a Master's program in Physics. The consensus indicates that pursuing a Master's directly is impractical due to insufficient undergraduate-level coursework in Physics and Mathematics. The Open University is suggested as a viable alternative for part-time study while working.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of A-level Mathematics and Sciences
  • Familiarity with the International Baccalaureate Diploma requirements
  • Knowledge of UK university entry requirements for Physics programs
  • Awareness of funding options for higher education in the UK
NEXT STEPS
  • Research foundation year programs in Physics or Astronomy
  • Investigate entry requirements for a second Bachelor's degree in Physics
  • Explore Master's programs in Physics and their prerequisites
  • Look into part-time study options at the Open University
USEFUL FOR

Individuals with a background in Psychology seeking to transition into Physics, prospective students considering a career in Astrophysics, and anyone exploring alternative educational pathways in the UK higher education system.

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Physics, and more specifically Astrophysics, has always been my passion. However I have just finished my BSc (Hons) Psychology in the UK and have achieved a 2.1. I do not want to carry on with psychology. I want to carry on in academia and study physics. I'm just wondering what on Earth my options are... (believe me I'm kicking myself for choosing the wrong degree).

Before university I completed the International Baccalaureate Diploma and scored a measly 26 points. I was having issues at the time and really made no effort (another thing I'm kicking myself for). It was my original intention to study physics and I did take higher level physics but only finished with a 4, which I guess is the equivalent of perhaps a 'C'. Do I need to:

A) Do a foundation year in physics/astronomy or even go back to school...
B) Do another Bachelors in physics/astronomy
C) Go straight on to a Masters in physics (if only)
D) Just give up on my dreams.
 
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Option C looks impossible, since the number of undergraduate-level physics courses you have done is zero, and the number of undergrad-level maths courses is also probably close to zero. (I have no idea whether psychologists take courses in vector calculus or partial differential equations, but my guess is they don't).

Whether B) is an option depends whether you can meet the entry requirements, which would be good grades in A-level maths and sciences (or equivalent IB or Scottish exams). Grade C would probably be marginal at best.

Also there may be funding issues for a second BSc degree - you probably can't take out more student loans, for example.

Option E) might be to investigate the Open University, get a job, and study part time for as long as it takes.
 

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