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Lagraaaange
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I was looking a Leonard Susskinds background, and I noticed he obtained his Phd in 3 years from Cornell. Is this unheard of in theoretical physics these day. Was he just that special?
ZapperZ said:You need to be careful when comparing the length of time for completing a Ph.D. In the US, this length of time is often measured based on the typical admission of PhD candidates, which is at the B.Sc. level. On the other hands, for most parts of the world, PhD admission is based on a M.Sc degree or equivalent.
If you total the length of time spent after the first baccalaureate degree, I don't believe there is a significant difference between various different educational systems.
In the US it might be difficult to get the institution t transfer in credit if the masters was done at a different university. I think my current PhD program only allows 6 credits of transfer out of a total of 54. You would have to do a bunch of courses over again or make up credits.HallsofIvy said:If a person already has a master's degree then it three years would be perfectly reasonable.
Other people mention that in the UK, a three years PhD is the standard. I cannot talk about the UK but here, in Canada, that's indeed the standard. But there is a huge caveat: a three years PhD here is done after a Master degree which is typically two years long whereas at Cornell, the usual PhD begins right after the Bachelor degree. So a three years PhD in Canada would really translate into a 5 years PhD at Cornell :-)Lagraaaange said:I was looking a Leonard Susskinds background, and I noticed he obtained his Phd in 3 years from Cornell. Is this unheard of in theoretical physics these day. Was he just that special?
The timeline for obtaining a Physics PhD in 3 years varies depending on the individual's research progress and the requirements of their specific program. However, it typically involves 2-3 years of coursework and 1-2 years of research and dissertation writing.
The key factors that contribute to completing a Physics PhD in 3 years include a strong foundation in physics and mathematics, efficient time management skills, a focused research topic, and a supportive advisor.
While prior research experience can be beneficial, it is not a requirement for completing a Physics PhD in 3 years. The most important factor is being able to dedicate enough time and effort to your research project.
Some universities offer accelerated programs specifically designed for students aiming to complete a Physics PhD in 3 years. These programs often have a more structured curriculum and may offer opportunities for early research experience.
Some tips for successfully completing a Physics PhD in 3 years include setting clear goals and timelines, communicating regularly with your advisor, staying organized, and seeking help and support when needed. It is also important to maintain a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout.