Programs Adding a math minor to a physics degree?

AI Thread Summary
Pursuing a math minor alongside a physics degree can enhance understanding and skills in physics, particularly for those interested in research or graduate studies in fields like condensed matter or energy. The coursework typically includes Transition (introduction to proofs), Linear Algebra, Analysis, Abstract Algebra, number theory, and a 400-level class. While the workload may be significant, the additional math knowledge can provide a competitive edge, especially in applied areas such as partial differential equations, computational math, and geometry. The decision to pursue the minor should align with future academic and career goals, as the benefits of increased mathematical proficiency can vary based on individual aspirations.
Arij
Messages
25
Reaction score
2
Hello guys,

I was wondering what are your thoughts on pursuing a math minor in addition to my physics degree. I have two years left to graduate. I will have to go through Transition (introduction to proofs), Linear Algebra, Analysis, Abstract Algebra and number theory and a 400 level class. Can anyone who has gone through this describe to me the workload and pros/cons of doing it? did it further your understanding and skills in physics at all?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It never hurts to learn more math. That is, in general, yourself with all your physics knowledge with an extra math course will be at a slight advantage over yourself with all your physics knowledge without that math course. It just depends on what you plan on doing whether the effort of taking the extra math courses is worth it. I can't comment specifically on each of them.
 
axmls said:
It never hurts to learn more math. That is, in general, yourself with all your physics knowledge with an extra math course will be at a slight advantage over yourself with all your physics knowledge without that math course. It just depends on what you plan on doing whether the effort of taking the extra math courses is worth it. I can't comment specifically on each of them.

I am looking into research and I want to get in graduate school; most likely for condensed matter or energy related degrees after I finish my undergrad.
 
take applied math courses, PDE's, Linear Algebra, Computational Math, a real course in geometry (not differential geometry, I am not adverse to it, but unless your thinking relativity as a research topic), a nonlinear math course might not be a bad thing either.

Where I got my UG degree, a math minor was 1 additional course for a physics major since we had to take a year long course in advanced applied math from the math department since they didn't teach a math methods course.
 
I graduated with a BSc in Physics in 2020. Since there were limited opportunities in my country (mostly teaching), I decided to improve my programming skills and began working in IT, first as a software engineer and later as a quality assurance engineer, where I’ve now spent about 3 years. While this career path has provided financial stability, I’ve realized that my excitement and passion aren’t really there, unlike what I felt when studying or doing research in physics. Working in IT...
Hello, I’m an undergraduate student pursuing degrees in both computer science and physics. I was wondering if anyone here has graduated with these degrees and applied to a physics graduate program. I’m curious about how graduate programs evaluated your applications. In addition, if I’m interested in doing research in quantum fields related to materials or computational physics, what kinds of undergraduate research experiences would be most valuable?

Similar threads

Back
Top