- #1
astroman707
- 61
- 5
Is there really much of a difference between an astronomy PhD and an astrophysics PhD? There seems to be a lot of overlap in the fields, and it seems that both can qualify you for many of the same careers, it just depends on the PhD focus.
For an example, I'm very interested in almost all areas of astrophysics, mostly theoretical. However, I've looked at graduate programs and most astrophysics programs require "quantum field theory" along with other physics courses that don't interest me, and don't seem that beneficial for someone interested in astronomy. Also, the core curriculum for astrophysics seems to leave little room for astro-related courses. Now, when looking at astronomy graduate programs, the core curriculum is filled with stellar evolution, galaxy formation, etc, with no "quantum field theory" or other seemingly inapplicable courses.
Can an astronomy PhD be equally as qualified for astrophysics jobs as an astrophysics PhD? Is an astronomy PhD still considered a physicist? Are these just names, and the real importance is in the focus of the PhD?
For an example, I'm very interested in almost all areas of astrophysics, mostly theoretical. However, I've looked at graduate programs and most astrophysics programs require "quantum field theory" along with other physics courses that don't interest me, and don't seem that beneficial for someone interested in astronomy. Also, the core curriculum for astrophysics seems to leave little room for astro-related courses. Now, when looking at astronomy graduate programs, the core curriculum is filled with stellar evolution, galaxy formation, etc, with no "quantum field theory" or other seemingly inapplicable courses.
Can an astronomy PhD be equally as qualified for astrophysics jobs as an astrophysics PhD? Is an astronomy PhD still considered a physicist? Are these just names, and the real importance is in the focus of the PhD?