Perimeter Institute runs a pretty great and unusual 1-year master’s program called Perimeter Scholars International.a If you’re in your last year as an undergrad, I strongly advise you (seriously) to consider applying. Your choice of grad school is 80% of the selection power determining your thesis topic, and that topic places very strong constraints on your entire academic career. The more your choice is informed by actual physics knowledge (rather than the apparent impressiveness of professors and institutions), the better. An additional year at a new institution taking classes with new teachers can really help.
(Older academics can advertise this to students by printing out this poster.)
Here’s the blurb:
Each year, Canada’s Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics recruits approximately 30 exceptional science graduates for an immersive, 10-month physics boot camp: Perimeter Scholars International (PSI). This unique Master’s program seeks not only students with stellar undergraduate physics track records, but also those with diverse backgrounds, collaborative spirit, creativity, and other attributes that will set them apart as future innovators.
Features of the program include:
- All student costs (tuition and living) are covered, removing financial and/or geographical barriers to entry
Students learn from world-leading theoretical physicists – resident Perimeter researchers and visiting scientists – within the inspiring environment of Perimeter Institute.- Collaboration is valued over competition; deep understanding and creativity are valued over rote learning and examination.
- PSI recruits worldwide: 85 percent of students come from outside of Canada.
- PSI takes calculated risks, seeking extraordinary talent who may have non-traditional academic backgrounds but have demonstrated exceptional scientific aptitude.
PSI is now accepting applications for the class of 2016/17. Applications are due by February 1, 2016.
Here’s the feel-good advertisement:
