A question about second cycle studies

[CounterTA]

Hello fellow science enthusiasts!

I have a question about second cycle studies. I'm in my last year of high school and I wish to study applied physics. However, my choice of university doesn't offer a programme in applied physics.

For a first cycle I can pick Physics, Astronomy or Physics Ed. I won't study Physics ed for sure, and my dilemma is between astronomy and physics. Why? Because I've already spent time studying astronomy, and it'll be easier for me. However, can I pursue a master's in applied physics with an astronomy degree?

The programmes in astronomy and physics are almost identical, with the exception of the Astronomy degree having Observational and Theoretical Astrophysics in the place of Quantum Mechanics and Solid State Physics in the third year.

Thank you!

 

[Dishsoap]

If the only difference is one class, why not take both classes and get a double major?

 

[Choppy]

I wish to study applied physics. However, my choice of university doesn't offer a programme in applied physics.

First, I want to highlight this part of your post. While I understand there can be reasons for attending specific universities (cost/scholarships, geographic limitations, family responsibilities, etc.), it's also important to think long and hard about what you want out of your education and whether the program that you're signing up for is going to give you that. If not, is it a good choice to attend this particular program in the first place?

That said, it's late in August and it's pretty much too late to enroll somewhere else anyway. Your first year is likely going to be identical anyway, so your choice between the two programs is more-or-less arbitrary at this point. (I'm assuming you're in North America somewhere, where it's easy to transfer between programs.)

As a general rule of thumb, it's preferable not to specialize too much too early. A physics major can generally get into astronomy or astrophysics graduate programs. An astronomy major who doesn't have an upper year course in quantum mechanics may have some trouble being accepted into some graduate programs because quantum is a core topic that's covered in comprehensive examinations.

 

[CounterTA]

If the only difference is one class, why not take both classes and get a double major?

I have little knowledge of how university works and I didn't know that this was an option. I'll do some research and if possible, it seems reasonable to accept it.

First, I want to highlight this part of your post. While I understand there can be reasons for attending specific universities (cost/scholarships, geographic limitations, family responsibilities, etc.), it's also important to think long and hard about what you want out of your education and whether the program that you're signing up for is going to give you that. If not, is it a good choice to attend this particular program in the first place?

I am still thinking about it. It's the best university I have access to.

That said, it's late in August and it's pretty much too late to enroll somewhere else anyway. Your first year is likely going to be identical anyway, so your choice between the two programs is more-or-less arbitrary at this point. (I'm assuming you're in North America somewhere, where it's easy to transfer between programs.)

I'm from a non-EU european country. And I haven't yet finished high school, but I wish to plan things ahead of time and not rush. I'm going to uni next year. The programme is mostly identical, with 3 subjects being the only difference, and I will have the ability to pick them as additional subjects.

Thank you, both of you, for helping me.