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Struggling to pick the right degree to build a lucrative career? Well, you are not the only one. Every student stresses out when it's time to select a college major. The pressure of picking the perfect degree that guarantees to kick start a progressive and flourishing career path after graduation freaks out many students. However, the right approach to choosing a degree is to primarily explore its scope and demand.
A great field that can promise a lucrative career in theoretical physics. A major or affiliate degree in this sphere can aid you in building a booming career. We understand that you might be worried about learning and exploring this subject. In order to help you, Superprof brings you online private tutoring services. We have highly knowledgeable and experienced tutors on our panel who can teach you this subject efficiently.
We are here to enlighten you about this subject and the valuable degrees which you can do to become a professional theoretical physicist. Are you excited to learn more about this subject? Continue reading to explore everything you need to know about becoming an expert in theoretical physics.
What Is Theoretical Physics?
Theoretical physics is a form of physics that deals with different theories about natural phenomena. This subject uses mathematical models and abstractions to study, analyze, explain, justify, and predict the different turns of events happening in the universe. Theoretical physics focuses on understanding universal systems so that they can get answers to the various questions that seed in our minds.
Theoretical physics is influenced by the works of philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Several other physicists have also significantly contributed by building a branch of science upon the philosophies. From Albert Einstein to Isaac Newton, many philosophers have introduced new and rational theories that the world has adopted to date.
Physicists and philosophers are interested in developing a theory so that they can experiment with it to see the results. However, in theoretical physics, physicists need to create theories without experimenting. This is what makes it different from experimental physics, as that science uses experimental tools to probe these phenomena.
Theoretical physics is all about breaking the complex systems of the universe into simplified models and visualizations. Physicists study, analyze and review these models. This practice makes theoretical physicists understand the universe better for making judgments. However, the theory must have approximate reality. It should be understandable, measurable, and predictable. If the theory results in contradictory statements, there is a high chance that the theory will be rejected or heavily criticized.
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Which Degrees Are Useful for Theoretical Physics?
Now that you have understood theoretical physics, it is time to learn how to become a professional in this field. Like every other field, you will have to complete your degree in theoretical physics to gain the necessary education, certification, and license to practice it.
Let's look at some of the degrees offered in this field:
Undergraduate Degree
The first and basic degree offered to learn and gain certification in theoretical physics is under graduation. This is a basic degree without which you cannot practice as a theoretical physicist. It provides you with the necessary skills to work as a proficient theoretical physicist. This degree can be completed in subjects like Physics, Applied Physics, or related science fields. However, no matter what undergraduate degree you pick, it is necessary that you have math and physics in it to have a basic understanding of concepts used in theoretical physics. The duration of this degree is typically four years.
An undergraduate degree will teach you fundamental physics, mathematical techniques, and various advanced subjects. Some of the subjects which you will learn in this degree include the following:
- Quantum information
- Cosmology
- Semiconductors
- Lasers
- Nuclear physics
- Particle physics
- Algebra
- Calculus
- Dynamics and vector calculus
- Programming
- Data analysis
Thermodynamics
In short, the universities of theoretical physics will ensure you have a broad understanding of advanced mechanics, advanced mathematics, and computational physics. The general entry requirements of this course require a 2 or 3 A level or equivalent, including math and physics. You can apply for exciting theoretical physics degree jobs after completing this course. However, it is necessary to remember that the undergraduate degree course is obligatory to become a professional theoretical physicist.
Master's Degree
After you have completed your graduation in physics or a related science subject, there is also the option of going for post-graduation by doing an MSc in theoretical physics. A master's in theoretical physics primarily includes fundamental theoretical and mathematical physics topics like general relativity and quantum field theory. This is followed by jumping to advanced-level subjects like string theory, supersymmetry, and the AdS/CFT correspondence.
A master's degree in theoretical physics is a highly intensive and research-led course. This course can make you a top-tier professional with an excessive and in-depth understanding of theoretical physics.
This degree is optional, as you can get a job in theoretical physics after completing your under-graduation. A master's degree makes you a specialized professional, increasing your chances of getting a well-paying theoretical physicist job. It would be appropriate to say that you will be qualified for more senior-level roles and earn higher salaries after completing this degree.
Moreover, a master's degree unlocks several lucrative opportunities for you. Some career options that you can easily get after completing this degree include:
- Consultant in information technology
- Financial analyst for banks or insurance companies
- Scientific journalist.
The duration of this degree is typically two years.
PhD.
After completing your bachelor's and Master's degree, you can get a PhD in theoretical physics. This is the highest level of degree that a student can get in a subject after graduation and post-graduation. However, some educational institutes offer students to go for a PhD straight after their bachelor's due to their exceptional academic record.
A PhD in theoretical physics is a highly focused and in-depth course of advanced topics. Those who earn this degree have excellent knowledge and skill in using mathematical models and abstract physical objects to understand physics. The core topics of this degree include relativity, cosmology, and string theory. The duration of this degree is four years.
A PhD in theoretical physics is an optional course. However, it is an excellent way to up your career game. Your professional worth will exceptionally increase after you become a PhD holder due to your solid grip on the subject. Several high-profile jobs and vocations will open for you, offering you high salaries and chances of promotions.
Combined Course Of Under graduation and Master's
A unique way of doing a theoretical physics degree is combining your undergraduate degree with a Master's like MPhys or MSc. This degree will start teaching you the basics of physics, gradually taking you toward theoretical physics. After ensuring you have a strong foundation in physics, the degree will take you toward more advanced learning, including complex topics like cosmetology, general relativity, quantum field theory, string theory, and more.
Universities For Theoretical Physics In The US
The United States is known for its quality education as the country has approximately 5300 colleges and universities. Out of this, many educational institutes offer a broad range of theoretical physics degrees, from undergraduate to postgraduate and up to PhD level. Here are some of the many well-reputed universities:
| University | Location | Degrees Offered |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Cambridge, Massachusetts | Undergraduate degree Doctoral program |
| Harvard University | Cambridge | Under-graduation Post-graduation |
| Stanford University | Stanford | Under-graduation Post-graduation |
| California Institute of Technology | California | Under-graduation Post-graduation |
| University of Chicago | Chicago | California Institute of Technology |
| Princeton University | Princeton | California Institute of Technology |
The different degrees offered for theoretical physics are a great way to learn the subject. However, we understand this is a complex subject with several challenging concepts, theories, and calculations. As a result, studying for a degree exclusively with college help can make the learning process difficult. To make the learning process easy, fun, and practical, Superprof offers private tutoring services. Let us share some of your academic burdens by providing extra learning help so you can have a firm command of the subject.
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Many students struggle to complete their degree in theoretical physics. This is because the study area is no piece of the cake. Students are bombarded with excessive learning and stretching, from reading, understanding, and analyzing complex theories to doing challenging mathematical calculations. As a result, studying the subject with only college help becomes difficult as there are set lecture timings and limited access to resources.
However, this does not mean that you cannot become a professional theoretical physicist. There is always room for extra help. The best option is to hire a professional private tutor. They will direct their unhindered attention, focus, and time toward your effective learning and help. You can get the leverage of a one-on-one interactive session with them, ask as many questions as you like, and discuss your academic or career-related concerns with them.
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