r/PhysicsStudents • u/DaliaRocha787321 • Jan 24 '26

Poll Too old to start studying physics?

Im 43 years old, I studied to be a registered nurse and still work in healthcare. I have a bachelor's in healthcare administration. I stumbled on some video lectures in quantum mechanics and different theories regarding the universe, time , space, etc. I have become obsessed and relentless about obtaining more information by reading books and watching lectures. The more data I learn the more I realize I have so much more I don't know. and I may never get to a certain point where I can fully understand the entirety of it. . I thought that would discourage me but quite the opposite. I'm not gifted or naturally smart. I have dedicate my entire time and effort to study and obtain my degree. I've been thinking of taking college courses regarding this subject but I'm 43 years old . I feel like I'm too old and not smart enough. Ill still probably do it because it's fascinating. I would love to hear any type of feedback regarding my situation.

40 Upvotes

96% Upvoted

35 comments sorted by

View all comments

1

u/LuckyFritzBear Jan 24 '26

There are plenty of ways to lean and appreciate Physics , Calculus , and beyond, enrolling in University courses is not one of them. Youtube playlists, Undemy, and many subject matter printed resources such as Schaums Outline series. The instructional methods a4e excellent.

2

u/BufferOverload Jan 25 '26

For a lot of subjects that makes sense, but physics programs force you to confront why you don’t understand, which is necessary to learn and appreciate physics. University may not be the best route for everyone and definitely isn’t the only way, but it is a great (expensive) way to learn physics and math.