number theory is truly the only pure math topic. everything else can be paralleled with some type of application. you mentioned set theory:
http://tph.tuwien.ac.at/~svozil/publ/set.htm"
some of the craziest theoretical math stuff is going on at the very forefront of physics.
whether they will count or not is a school's choice, but if you really want to learn the material, it won't matter. there is so much overlap materialwise in high level physics and math that they very nearly become the same subject. i mean, heck, take stephen hawking, premiere physicist - but...
i used to feel bad for music majors, as their time seemed to be consumed with classes and recitals et al. they seemed to have no lives at all. now i realize that they were merely consumed by what they were doing. sure, you will need to be dedicated to be successful in grad school, but that...
one of the importances of undergraduate study is to get a taste of many aspects of physics. you need not worry now about a focus. instead, maybe it will benefit you most to just enjoy the classes that you need and let that experience guide you to the next level. good luck, as it will be an...
i am a double major. i have found that, though there are significantly more math classes in the math major, it is not so diffcult to do. this is primarily due to the fact that any major leaves room for electives. if you take your electives in math, then you are still killing two birds with one...
If you want some great information (as well as some inspiration) on the subject of overcoming intellectual odds with determination and persistence, rather than natural talent and genius, check out the new august issue of scientific american magazine at your local bookstore. you won't be sorry, i...
though you can surely find a school that offers both, it seems that the really good schools do not. you can always take graduate courses in either, but if the paper is what you are after, you will have to sacrifice to get it. really, i would advise getting into the best school you can and taking...