Masters before PhD improving chances of admission?

In summary, the speaker is a recent MIT graduate with a double major in physics and ChemE, but with a GPA lower than what is typically seen in physics majors. They are also in the navy and won't be able to start a PhD until 2013. The speaker is considering doing a masters in applied physics at Johns Hopkins while in the navy and is wondering if this could compensate for their lower GPA when applying for PhD programs. The group suggests that recent academic performance is given more weight than older data, and excelling in a masters program and having research experience could improve the speaker's chances for a PhD program.
  • #1
dsboone
1
0
Hi Everyone,

I graduated from MIT in June as a double in physics and ChemE, but with a GPA of 3.1/4. I'm published and I have research experience, but my GPA still doesn't measure up to what I've seen other physics majors compete with. Add to that I'm in the navy and won't be able to start a PhD until 2013. I was thinking about doing a masters in applied physics (no thesis) at Johns Hopkins while I'm in the navy. Do you think better academic performance as a masters student would compensate for my low-ish GPA?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Your recent academic performance - good or bad - is usually given much stronger weight than older data. Take that FWIW. If nothing else, it could give you an immediate route for continuing your education.
 
  • #3
If you do really well in your Masters program, it'll show PhD programs that you are able to handle graduate level courses. That, along with research experience, should improve your chances.
 

Related to Masters before PhD improving chances of admission?

1. What is the difference between a Master's degree and a PhD?

A Master's degree is a postgraduate degree that typically takes 1-2 years to complete and focuses on a specific field of study. A PhD, on the other hand, is a more advanced degree that requires 3-6 years of study and research and is focused on making significant contributions to a particular field of study.

2. Will having a Master's degree increase my chances of getting into a PhD program?

It is generally believed that having a Master's degree can improve your chances of getting into a PhD program. This is because a Master's degree demonstrates a higher level of academic achievement and research experience, which are important factors that admissions committees consider when evaluating candidates for a PhD program.

3. How does a Master's degree prepare me for a PhD program?

A Master's degree can provide you with a solid foundation in your chosen field of study and develop your critical thinking, research, and writing skills. These are all essential skills for success in a PhD program, as you will be expected to conduct independent research and publish your findings.

4. Is it necessary to have a Master's degree before applying for a PhD program?

No, it is not always necessary to have a Master's degree before applying for a PhD program. Some PhD programs offer direct entry for students with a bachelor's degree, while others may require a Master's degree or equivalent research experience.

5. Can a Master's degree from a different field of study help me get into a PhD program?

In some cases, having a Master's degree from a different field of study may still be advantageous when applying for a PhD program. It can demonstrate your ability to adapt and learn new concepts, as well as provide a diverse perspective that can be valuable in research. However, it ultimately depends on the specific program and the relevance of your Master's degree to the PhD program you are applying for.

Similar threads

Admissions Getting into a top tier Physics PhD Program with a Masters Degree
    • STEM Academic Advising
2
Replies
50
Views
4K
Question about my bachelor's GPA vs. my master's GPA and my PhD applications
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
7
Views
663
Admissions Is it harder to get into a top US PhD Program with a German Master's degree?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
17
Views
1K
Applying for a PhD in Physics after a Master's degree
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
4
Views
791
Admissions What are my chances for PhD in physics after my MSc physics?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
10
Views
1K
Admissions Applying for PhD despite very weak undergraduate GPA
    • STEM Academic Advising
2
Replies
53
Views
4K
Is a Low CGPA a Deal Breaker for Grad School Admissions?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
18
Views
2K
Admissions How to prove Physics competency to grad school admission committees?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
24
Views
2K
Advice: Doing grad school abroad and getting a masters instead of PhD
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
15
Views
2K
Admissions Need advice regarding my admissions prospects for graduate school
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
5
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top