All Questions
Tagged with physics graduate-school
56
questions
60
votes
11
answers
19k
views
Is it frowned upon to go to office hours as a graduate student?
I'm a graduate student (PhD, first year) in physics, and there have been a few times where I just can't figure out something regarding the material/subject of the class. Normally I just tell myself ...
- 1,548
23
votes
7
answers
7k
views
As a PhD student in theoretical physics, what fraction of my time (if any) should I spend on background material rather than my research problem?
I am a theoretical physics PhD student in the initial years. There is something which has been bothering me ever since I have started my PhD till today i.e whether one should completely focus on ...
- 450
13
votes
8
answers
6k
views
How important is attending graduate school for a PhD for physics/mathematics/astrophysics research?
Is it possible for one to publish high quality research papers in the aforementioned fields without attending a graduate school? I feel that you can read online material and books about research/...
- 191
13
votes
5
answers
1k
views
Ph.D. rejection from German University due to citizenship and gotten degree from my previous institute by BAFA
This spring I ran away from Russia due to increasing repressions and other risks. Long story short, I got a Ph.D. position in quantum computing at Stuttgart University in the state of Baden-...
- 139
11
votes
3
answers
3k
views
What type of Grad School if I'm interested in Quantum Computing?
I'm currently an undergraduate at a prestigious private university in the U.S. I'm majoring in Physics, Math, and Computer Science and currently am a junior. I've taken 5 graduate level courses so far ...
- 405
9
votes
5
answers
4k
views
Finishing the physics graduate curriculum as undergrad
I am a year ahead of my physics curriculum, but I plan to stay as an undergrad for the 4th year to increase my chances at top graduate schools in physics. In this 4th year, I will take all the ...
- 91
5
votes
1
answer
346
views
Studying for the exam or for learning? Is there time later?
I don't know if there's a correct answer to my dilemma, but I'd like the opinion of other people, in and outside the field, maybe older and more "experienced in life" than me. This is my situation
I ...
- 2,859
5
votes
2
answers
1k
views
Doing PhD in math/physics after obtaining a bachelor degree in an unrelated field [duplicate]
I want to do a PhD in mathematics (Specializing in algebraic topology or algebraic geometry ) or mathematical physics (String theory). I have a bachelor degree in a totally different field (medicine). ...
- 51
5
votes
1
answer
1k
views
Do graduate schools dislike when students take 5 years in undergrad?
I am currently a junior Materials Science and Engineering major at a top engineering university, and have done research in a very physics-based materials science lab for the past two years. I love ...
- 51
4
votes
2
answers
1k
views
How can I pursue my intellectual ambitions in physics (specifically quantum foundations) without favorable conditions? [closed]
I'm in a bit of a tricky situation and I'm not sure how to proceed forwards in accomplishing my goals. I think I am a bit of an information addict especially in regards to physics. I can't stop ...
- 169
4
votes
4
answers
3k
views
Transferring to a Top-10 PhD program in Theoretical Physics from a Top-50 program in US for better job prospects in Academia? [duplicate]
I will be soon joining a Top-50 school for a PhD in High Energy Theory. They have some very good professors who have published top quality journal articles in their area of expertise (even with some ...
- 794
4
votes
2
answers
10k
views
Isn't the job prospect in theoretical/mathematical physics too bad to justify doing a PhD in it? [closed]
Almost every theoretical physicist (string theorists) that I meet tells me that it makes no sense to try do a PhD. in these subjects since there are simply no jobs available and things are only going ...
- 1,549
4
votes
1
answer
274
views
Graduate courses or research experience for PhD admissions: Which is more important? [closed]
I am currently at a crossroads, deciding between several MS program offers. I have the choice to do a research based masters, where I would take very few graduate courses but focus almost solely on ...
- 103
4
votes
2
answers
760
views
Currently with a research group for my Master's degree, but am receiving no directions. Is this normal?
I have recently become a Master's student that is in a research group on theoretical elementary particle physics. The program lasts for 2 years and I am expected to have a Master's thesis written up ...
- 41
4
votes
2
answers
270
views
Switching Topics Once in Graduate School
I plan to pursue a graduate school "career" in theoretical condensed matter physics in the US; however, getting into a grad program as a theory student is quite difficult due to limited ...
- 301