Materials Science or Applied Physics

In summary, the conversation discusses two MSc courses at the same university and debates which one would be better for obtaining employment in the fields of science, research, or engineering. The first option is an online course with no lectures, but the student can still use university facilities and complete their project on campus. The second option is an on-campus course with lectures. However, no further information is given about the content of each course, making it difficult to determine which would be better. The conversation also notes that in some programs in the US, applied physics can also include material science and condensed matter physics.
  • #1
ZedCar
354
1
Which MSc course below do you think would be better to have upon graduation, in terms of being able to obtain employment in some area of science or research, or perhaps engineering?

Both are at the same university.

MSc Materials Science. This is an online course (no lectures), though a student can use all the university facilities as per normal, and the project is done at the university. It will not state on the final certificate that it was an online course, though of course an employer could simply observe this from the university website.

MSc Applied Physics. This is an on-campus course with lectures.
 
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  • #2
ZedCar said:
Which MSc course below do you think would be better to have upon graduation, in terms of being able to obtain employment in some area of science or research, or perhaps engineering?

Both are at the same university.

MSc Materials Science. This is an online course (no lectures), though a student can use all the university facilities as per normal, and the project is done at the university. It will not state on the final certificate that it was an online course, though of course an employer could simply observe this from the university website.

MSc Applied Physics. This is an on-campus course with lectures.

Unfortunately, you gave no relevant information on the content of each course for any of us to decide which is better. We cannot judge a field of study just based on the name, especially when they are roughly similar to one another, anymore than you can judge which is a better school bag for me based simply on the color.

In many programs here in the US, "applied physics" also includes material science/condensed matter physics (see: Stanford University).

Zz.
 

Related to Materials Science or Applied Physics

What is Materials Science?

Materials Science is a field that focuses on the study and development of materials for various applications. This includes understanding the structure, properties, and processing of materials at the atomic and molecular level. Materials scientists work to discover and create new materials with specific properties that can be used in technology, medicine, energy, and other industries.

What is Applied Physics?

Applied Physics is a branch of physics that is concerned with the practical application of the principles and theories of physics to solve real-world problems. It involves using the fundamental laws of physics to develop new technologies, devices, and processes for various industries such as engineering, medicine, and telecommunications.

What are some common applications of Materials Science?

Materials Science has a wide range of applications, including developing new materials for use in electronics, energy production, transportation, construction, and healthcare. Some specific examples include the development of lightweight and durable materials for aircraft and cars, advanced materials for solar panels and batteries, and biocompatible materials for medical implants.

What skills are needed to work in Materials Science or Applied Physics?

To work in Materials Science or Applied Physics, you need a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. You also need critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to design and conduct experiments and analyze data. Good communication and teamwork skills are also important, as materials scientists often work in multidisciplinary teams.

What are some current research areas in Materials Science and Applied Physics?

Some current research areas in Materials Science and Applied Physics include nanotechnology, biomaterials, renewable energy materials, and superconductors. Other areas of interest include materials for 3D printing, advanced sensors and devices, and the development of new materials for space exploration. Materials scientists and applied physicists also work to improve existing materials and to find solutions to environmental and sustainability challenges.

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