Getting MS Before PhD: Computer Science or Applied Physics?

[Spherical Cow]

I spent my first year and half of college studying computer science, then I decided to switch into physics. I'm hoping to spend a fifth year coterm before I decide to pursue a physics PhD. My school does not offer an MS in physics, just PhD. For the coterm, I'm debating whether I should get an MS in applied physics or computer science.

Computer science would diversify my studies. It would also give me more practical skills in case I decide not to pursue a physics PhD. The only downside is it means a year without any physics.

On the other hand, pursuing the applied physics MS will give me better connections to professors, who might write better recommendations if I decide to apply for a PhD. But a lot of the courses in the applied physics MS will be a part of the physics PhD anyways, so a computer science MS might be more beneficial.

Which do you think is the more reasonable move?

 

[TonyG]

Dear forum post author,

Thank you for sharing your academic journey with us. It's great to see that you are considering different options for your fifth year coterm and are thinking about how it will impact your future plans.

Firstly, it's important to note that both computer science and applied physics are valuable fields of study and can provide you with a diverse set of skills and opportunities. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal interests and goals.

If you are leaning towards pursuing a physics PhD, then the applied physics MS may be the more reasonable move for you. As you mentioned, it will give you better connections with professors and potentially stronger recommendation letters for your PhD applications. Additionally, the courses in the applied physics MS will likely be more directly applicable to your future studies and research in physics.

However, if you are considering other career options outside of a physics PhD, then the computer science MS may be a good choice for diversifying your skills and providing practical knowledge. This can be particularly beneficial if you are interested in fields that involve both physics and computer science, such as computational physics or data science.

Ultimately, it's important to carefully weigh your options and consider what will best align with your long-term goals. It's also worth discussing your options with your academic advisor or professors who can provide more personalized guidance.

Best of luck with your decision and your future studies in either field!