Worthwhlie to Obtain Masters Before Phd

[fauxMulder]

I was wondering if it would be worthwhile to get a masters in Physics, CS, or Electrical Engineering before I attempt to get a Phd in Physics.

My situation is this: I want to study/work in plasma physics research (specifically electric/plasma propulsion) for the rest of my life. The problem is my GPA is around a 3.1. I do have a bit of pedigree in my resume: consulted for a Claremont graduate school, worked for the R&D division of a biomedical company who normally only hires people with their masters/phd from elite colleges, co-ran a mobile software start-up, and did plasma physics research with a Cal State in conjunction with PPPL for about a year. I will also be graduating with a BS with majors in physics, computer science, and electrical engineering. I might have a couple of publications in Biomedical/Plasma Physics by the end of the year but that is questionable. I can explain my GPA with depression that ended up with me in the hospital a few times for trying to commit suicide but I would rather not have to use an excuse for my poor academic performance.

Any advice is appreciated.

 

[Student100]

I was wondering if it would be worthwhile to get a masters in Physics, CS, or Electrical Engineering before I attempt to get a Phd in Physics.

My situation is this: I want to study/work in plasma physics research (specifically electric/plasma propulsion) for the rest of my life. The problem is my GPA is around a 3.1. I do have a bit of pedigree in my resume: consulted for a Claremont graduate school, worked for the R&D division of a biomedical company who normally only hires people with their masters/phd from elite colleges, co-ran a mobile software start-up, and did plasma physics research with a Cal State in conjunction with PPPL for about a year. I will also be graduating with a BS with majors in physics, computer science, and electrical engineering. I might have a couple of publications in Biomedical/Plasma Physics by the end of the year but that is questionable. I can explain my GPA with depression that ended up with me in the hospital a few times for trying to commit suicide but I would rather not have to use an excuse for my poor academic performance.

Any advice is appreciated.

You should apply directly for a PhD program. Have you taken the test yet?