Is Age a Factor in Pursuing a Career in Physics?

  • Thread starter matthieulabelle
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Age Matter
In summary, the conversation discusses the average age for finishing a BSc in physics and whether age plays a role in a career in physics. The topic of getting a PhD at a young age and the importance of age, experience, and university attended in the field of physics is also brought up. Some individuals share their own experiences and concerns about their age and career prospects in the field. The conversation concludes with a mention of academia and its potential opportunities for older individuals pursuing physics.
  • #1
matthieulabelle
7
0
Many people finish their BSc in physics at an average age (21-23). What i was wondering is, for a career in physics does age play a role in it? many of the smartest or well known physicists have their phd by 23, would getting it at 27 or 28 be any worse?

What matters more age, experience or the university you attend?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Dont even worry about that question unless you are on your 60s
 
  • #3
I dropped out of college when I was 19. I'm now 23 and I recently started going back. This fall I will be starting the equivalent of my sophomore year of pursuing a BS in physics (hopefully a Masters after that). I've also worried about being older than other applicants when I get out of school and go to find a job, but I generally subscribe to the theory that if you get good grades and perform excellently, your talent and skill will overcome the age difference. That not only keeps me going, but pushes me to excel over the "kids" sharing my classes.

Just study hard and no one will have room to diss your age.

*And stay in school, kids*
 
  • #4
I went back to school at 35 and finished my B.S. at 41, so you have a way to go before you need to worry about it.
 
  • #5
matthieulabelle said:
Many people finish their BSc in physics at an average age (21-23). What i was wondering is, for a career in physics does age play a role in it? many of the smartest or well known physicists have their phd by 23, would getting it at 27 or 28 be any worse?

What matters more age, experience or the university you attend?
No one gets their PhD at 23 anymore. Different era buddy. Average time for a PhD these days is 5+ years, after finishing a Bsc
 
  • #6
yeah if you got a phd by the time your 23 I don't think you would have really had the time to grok all of what you studied.
 
  • #7
daveb said:
I went back to school at 35 and finished my B.S. at 41, so you have a way to go before you need to worry about it.

daveb,

I'm just curious...did you major in physics? What's your career path?

I'm 35 and just got my BS in physics last spring, and now I'm working toward an MS. The degree took a whole lot longer than I expected due to circumstances out of my control, so now I'm trying to figure out what career options are open to me at my age. I'm thinking academia's out of the question, but NASA or something like it would be extremely cool.
 
  • #8
After High School, I took a three year break before starting school, and even then I pittered around, poking at core classes. I'm now 25 and on my third year as a physics major towards a BS. I wont' have my Bachelor's until I'm probably 27 (I'm not one to take 18 credits a semester, I like soak time) and I'll probaby take a year here, working where I graduated before I go to grad school (which is another five plus years) so I probalby won't have my phd until I'm 32. I can't even imagine being 30.
 
  • #9
My B.S. is a double in math and physics. Originally I had planned to get a job (not career) during the day and finish up a masters at night so I could teach community college (I enjoy teaching but don't want to teach HS, and the life of a PhD student is not for me at this point in my life). I work as a health physicist right now and am trying to get into Ohio State's Nuclear Engineering graduate program for a masters. I'll try to take the CHP exam in a few years once I qualify.
 
  • #10
PhD at 23? Yeah, right! :smile: Not anymore.
 
  • #12
SpaceCadet said:
daveb,

I'm just curious...did you major in physics? What's your career path?

I'm 35 and just got my BS in physics last spring, and now I'm working toward an MS. The degree took a whole lot longer than I expected due to circumstances out of my control, so now I'm trying to figure out what career options are open to me at my age. I'm thinking academia's out of the question, but NASA or something like it would be extremely cool.

Why would acedemia be out of the question? I don't think universities put THAT much an emphasis on age. Or do they?
 
  • #13
Not the ones I looked into. I just didn't want to tlive the life of a penniless grad student, so I didn't pursue a PhD.
 

FAQ: Is Age a Factor in Pursuing a Career in Physics?

Does age really matter in relationships?

It depends on the individuals involved and their personal preferences. Some people may prioritize age in a relationship, while others may not see it as a significant factor. Ultimately, the success of a relationship depends on mutual respect, understanding, and compatibility, regardless of age.

Does age affect career success?

While age can certainly impact one's career in terms of experience and opportunities, it is not the sole determining factor. Factors such as education, skills, and networking also play a significant role in career success. It is important to remember that success looks different for everyone and can be achieved at any age.

Does age affect physical and mental abilities?

Aging can bring about changes in physical and mental abilities, but it is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and overall health can also play a role. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and engage in activities that stimulate both the body and mind as we age.

Does age impact learning ability?

Age can affect the way we learn and process information, but it is not a determining factor. Older individuals may have more life experience and knowledge to draw from, while younger individuals may have more energy and adaptability. Ultimately, one's ability to learn is impacted by their personal motivation and dedication to learning.

Does age affect decision-making skills?

As we age, our decision-making skills may change due to factors such as experience, wisdom, and cognitive decline. However, this does not mean that older individuals are incapable of making sound decisions. It is important to continually assess and improve decision-making skills, regardless of age, in order to make the best choices for oneself.

Similar threads

PhD in theoretical physics and a PhD in Pure Maths at an old age
Replies
17
Views
2K
Other More formal education later in career
Replies
4
Views
538
How to switch from engineering with unknown undergrad name to Physics?
Replies
16
Views
829
Can a young person get a PhD in physics after a good discovery?
Replies
10
Views
3K
Deciding between Physics or Engineering after a very turbulent year
Replies
23
Views
962
Double majoring in electrical engineering and physics
Replies
22
Views
1K
Other Should I Take Extra Courses During My PhD in Cosmology for Future Careers?
Replies
3
Views
1K
Is Pursuing An Academic Carrer (in Mathematical Physics) Stressful?
Replies
2
Views
1K
Is It Possible to Pursue Physics Without a Traditional Degree?
Replies
25
Views
3K
Other Should I pursue a degree in physics?
Replies
10
Views
760

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top