What fields would an MS in Physics cover?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential fields of specialization within a Master's program in Physics, particularly focusing on astrophysics and astronomy. Participants explore the structure of MS programs in different countries, the possibility of transitioning from an MS in India to a PhD in the US, and the concept of pursuing dual research topics in a PhD program.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses interest in specializing in astrophysics and astronomy within a Master's program in Physics.
  • Another participant notes that in the US, MS programs in Physics are often not terminal degrees and are typically pursued as a step towards a PhD.
  • A participant from India questions whether obtaining a Master's degree in India would allow for admission to a PhD program in the US.
  • There is a discussion about the concept of a dual PhD, with one participant asking if it is possible to conduct research in different subjects simultaneously, while another participant indicates they have not heard of such a program.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the structure of dual PhD programs, and there are differing perspectives on the recognition of international degrees in the US. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of dual research topics in PhD studies.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of specific information about the recognition of Indian degrees in US programs and the absence of clear definitions regarding dual PhD structures.

JOULEJATT
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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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