u/Specialist_Hall_1063

Hi everyone,

I'm currently pursuing a degree in a field other than physics (computer science/engineering), but my long-term goal is to become a theoretical physicist. I know this is an unconventional path, and I'm willing to put in the effort.

I'm looking for advice from people who have self-studied physics or transitioned into theoretical physics from another field.

Some questions I have:

What should I study first, and in what order (math and physics)?

Which textbooks or online courses would you recommend?

How can I know if I'm learning at the right depth?

Is it realistic to eventually contribute to theoretical physics through self-study, or would I eventually need a formal physics degree?

If anyone has taken a similar path, I'd love to hear your experience.

I'm prepared to dedicate several hours each day outside my degree coursework. Any guidance or study roadmap would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Hi everyone,

I'm currently pursuing a degree in a field other than physics (computer science/engineering), but my long-term goal is to become a theoretical physicist. I know this is an unconventional path, and I'm willing to put in the effort.

I'm looking for advice from people who have self-studied physics or transitioned into theoretical physics from another field.

Some questions I have:

What should I study first, and in what order (math and physics)?

Which textbooks or online courses would you recommend?

How can I know if I'm learning at the right depth?

Is it realistic to eventually contribute to theoretical physics through self-study, or would I eventually need a formal physics degree?

If anyone has taken a similar path, I'd love to hear your experience.

I'm prepared to dedicate several hours each day outside my degree coursework. Any guidance or study roadmap would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Hi everyone,

I'm currently pursuing a degree in a field other than physics (computer science/engineering), but my long-term goal is to become a theoretical physicist. I know this is an unconventional path, and I'm willing to put in the effort.

I'm looking for advice from people who have self-studied physics or transitioned into theoretical physics from another field.

Some questions I have:

What should I study first, and in what order (math and physics)?

Which textbooks or online courses would you recommend?

How can I know if I'm learning at the right depth?

Is it realistic to eventually contribute to theoretical physics through self-study, or would I eventually need a formal physics degree?

If anyone has taken a similar path, I'd love to hear your experience.

I'm prepared to dedicate several hours each day outside my degree coursework. Any guidance or study roadmap would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Can someone with a B.Tech in Computer Science apply directly to M.Sc. programs in Physics (especially abroad), or do most universities require a bachelor's degree in Physics?

If a CS degree alone isn't enough, what is the best way to become eligible?

Has anyone successfully transitioned from Computer Science/Engineering to theoretical physics?