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Boston University Phy VS Northwestern Applied physics

Posted: Tue Mar 06, 2012 1:21 pm
by iota
PhD offer school selection . Boston vs Northwestern
Currently I am interested in a prof's work in BU, and an assistant prof's work in NW. But they all give me a fellowship, so I don't have to decide the adviser yet.

I don't want to become a prof. So after graduation I might look job in hi-tech company or start my own business.
Some PhD students told me that a big name like Northwestern will help me when I hunt for a job. Is it ture?

What else I should consider during making a decision?

Re: Boston University Phy VS Northwestern Applied physics

Posted: Tue Mar 06, 2012 5:43 pm
by scintillahx
I'm from the Boston area and I was told by professors that BU has an okay reputation. I supposed applied physics may work better for you if you are not interested in academia.

Re: Boston University Phy VS Northwestern Applied physics

Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2012 3:10 pm
by guy
A degree in general physics goes a long way. I don't think you would lose anything relative a degree in applied physics. As far as the school goes, Northwestern may be a slightly better name, but you should consider location too. If you're looking to go into industry or become an entrepreneur, I would say the closer you are to MIT the better. Boston is just a hub for that sort of thing and I think you'd see more opportunities.

By the way, take a look at the book titled A PhD is not enough. I'm of a like mind and have found it very helpful for thinking about how to optimize options for after graduate school.