What fields would an MS in Physics cover?

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A Mechanical engineering student interested in pursuing a master's in physics with a focus on astrophysics and astronomy seeks clarity on specialization options and postgraduate courses in these fields. In the U.S., a Physics MS is typically not a terminal degree and is often pursued as a step toward a PhD, with many programs designed to prepare students for doctoral studies. The student, originally from India, inquires about the feasibility of transitioning from a master's in India to a PhD in the U.S. Responses indicate that obtaining a U.S. PhD with an Indian MS is generally possible, though acceptance varies by program. The concept of a dual PhD, where one could research different subjects simultaneously, is not commonly recognized, with the closest equivalent being MD-PhD programs, which do not align with the student's intent.
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I am a Mechanical engineering student planning to do masters in physics next year. I am interested in astrophysics and astronomy, but classical and quantum mechanics also interests me.If I take admission into a masters degree program in physics, would I be able to specialize in these fields?What are other post graduate courses in astronomy and astrophysics?
 
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The US is somewhat different from other countries in that a Physics MS program is rarely a terminal degree. We are a MS-only department, and our programs can be considered pre-professional: the coursework is highly specific. There are some MS programs that are aimed to get students better prepared for a PhD program, sometimes called 'bridge programs', but in the US, the overwhelming majority of Physics MS degrees are earned en-route to a PhD (and this includes people who drop out of the PhD program with an MS degree).
 
I did not mention
Andy Resnick said:
The US is somewhat different from other countries in that a Physics MS program is rarely a terminal degree. We are a MS-only department, and our programs can be considered pre-professional: the coursework is highly specific. There are some MS programs that are aimed to get students better prepared for a PhD program, sometimes called 'bridge programs', but in the US, the overwhelming majority of Physics MS degrees are earned en-route to a PhD (and this includes people who drop out of the PhD program with an MS degree).
sorry man I did not mention I am from India, I was asking generally.The reason I asked this is that I want to experience more and learn more. If I get a masters here in India, would I be able to do PhD from U.S.? Also is there anything like a Dual PhD, where I can learn and research on different subjects? I know this might sound stupid, please bear with me. :frown::nb):smile::wink::bow:
 
JOULEJATT said:
I did not mention

sorry man I did not mention I am from India, I was asking generally.The reason I asked this is that I want to experience more and learn more. If I get a masters here in India, would I be able to do PhD from U.S.? Also is there anything like a Dual PhD, where I can learn and research on different subjects?

I see no reason why you would not be able to matriculate to the US with a MS degree from India. Every program is different, and I can't comment on if you will get 'credit' for those course or have to start over.

Dual PhD- I have never heard of anything like that. Perhaps the closest is a MD-PhD program, but that's not what you are referring to.
 
Andy Resnick said:
I see no reason why you would not be able to matriculate to the US with a MS degree from India. Every program is different, and I can't comment on if you will get 'credit' for those course or have to start over.

Dual PhD- I have never heard of anything like that. Perhaps the closest is a MD-PhD program, but that's not what you are referring to.
what I meant by dual PhD is that can research studies be carried out on different subjects simultaneously?
 

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