What are the minimum undergraduate courses I need in order to be accepted into a Physics graduate program?

Question

I have a B.A. in Communications and very few math or science undergraduate classes. I work full time as a design engineer, and need the quickest and most cost effective plan to prepare for graduate school.

I have a B.A. in Communications and very few math or science undergraduate classes. I work full time as a design engineer, and need the quickest and most cost effective plan to prepare for graduate school. I can most likely test out of Calculus and the lower level courses.

I can most likely test out of Calculus and the lower level courses.

Answer 1

A good school will make its admission decision based on how qualified you are to do the work, not on what courses you've taken. Show them the work you have done as a design engineer. Prepare for the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) and that will give you a good idea what you need. Think about what kind of physics work you want to study and do, and look at the first courses you'll need to take, and their prerequisites. Look at the Open Course Ware offerings at MIT (see reference). Try to take some upper level undergraduate courses that would be most relevant to your intended graduate emphasis. Completing courses like that with good grades is a good way to show your qualification and preparation. And if you do get accepted, be prepared to be overwhelmed and to work like crazy to catch up and keep up. It's hard to jump into a race in the middle.

Answer 2

You are going to have a difficult time with your background getting into a physics graduate program. Most places require at least three calculus classes, differential equations, modern physics, EM, Classical Mechanics, QM, and thermodynamics. If you do not have these classes, it will be extremely difficult for you even if you get accepted as you will be expected to know things from all these areas. It may be better, if your plan is to go into engineering, to pursue an engineering graduate degree instead as there is much less science and math required for an engineering graduate program.

Answer 3

Even for an Engineering degree, you will need a minimum of 3 semesters of calculus, differential equations, maybe linear algebra, statistics, thermodynamics, statics, dynamics, electrical conversions, Engineering economics, and 2 semesters of university level chemistry and physics. Thats basic qualifications and usually should take 2 years. Then you need 2 years of 300 & 400 level classes in your speciality.

Answer 4

i guess it all depends on the University you are enrolled in. Some offer BS/MS dual degrees for certain Majors.
Others will offer you graduate acceptance with a minor in that field.
Best bet is to go to their website and find out. And if no luck go to the physics academic advisor and ask. Goodluck

Answer 5

10th with Science