Advice for an Undergraduate Physics major looking for focus

[Memnaun]

I am a sophmore physics major, and I'm trying to decide on a concentration. I'm very interested in psychology, and am trying to find a way to combine the two, but I doubt that with the time remaining that I could even minor in bio or psychology in the time remaining to me. If I wish to pursue something like neuroscience, what should I do now? Is a simple physics bachelors enough?

 

[Greg Bernhardt]

If you want to get into neuroscience you'll need a strong background in biology, not just a minor. When considering the next 40 years of your life, an extra 2 years to switch majors is not a big deal.

 

[Arsenic&Lace]

I'm not sure I agree with you Greg, there are lots of biophysics students with little to no biology background who learn what they need either in graduate courses or on their own. I'm guessing it depends on the type of neuroscience you're interested in. Wet lab stuff probably necessitates a solid biology foundation, but theoretical or computational neurophysics/neuroscience probably doesn't.

 

[analogdesign]

I'm guessing it depends on the type of neuroscience you're interested in.

Strongly agree with this. Neuroscience is almost a meaningless word these days, at least when discussing skill sets. A do some work with computational neuroscientists and their skills and knowledge is so different from the behavioral neuroscientists that they barely speak the same technical language. It is almost beyond belief how complex neuroscience is and the diversity of backgrounds and skills speaks to this.

 

[Matrix0]

As a scientist, my advice to you would be to prioritize your interests and career goals before deciding on a concentration. It is important to have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve with your degree and how your interests in physics and psychology can align.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in neuroscience, it would be beneficial to take relevant courses in biology and psychology to gain a basic understanding of these fields. You can also consider taking electives or minoring in these subjects if it fits within your academic plan and time constraints.

Additionally, gaining research experience in a neuroscience-related field can also be valuable in preparing you for a career in this field. You can reach out to professors or researchers in your department to inquire about potential research opportunities or internships.

Ultimately, a simple physics bachelor's degree may not provide you with the necessary background and skills for a career in neuroscience. However, you can still pursue this interest by incorporating relevant courses and experiences into your academic plan and seeking out opportunities for further learning and development.