BA vs BSc in Physics: Pros & Cons

  • Thread starter Thread starter ilii
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Bsc Physics
AI Thread Summary
Entering a BSc physics program raises the question of whether to switch to a BA to avoid chemistry courses. While a BA may offer more flexibility and fewer chemistry requirements, it could limit exposure to essential scientific concepts. A BSc typically includes a more rigorous curriculum with a stronger emphasis on math and physics, which can be beneficial for a deeper understanding of the subject. Some discussions highlight that a basic knowledge of chemistry is important for grasping certain physics concepts, as there is overlap between the two fields. Ultimately, the decision should consider the long-term implications for understanding physics and potential career paths, as both degree types may have different course requirements and academic rigor.
ilii
Messages
39
Reaction score
1
Hello,

I will be entering my first year as a Bsc physics student in January. I am wondering if I should switch to a regular BA to avoid a few chemistry courses I will need to take that come along with enrolling in a Bsc degree program. I have no interest in chemistry or anything other than maths/physics/CS at the moment.

I am not sure if making this switch is a good idea. What will some of the drawbacks be if I graduate with only a BS in physics instead of a Bsc?

Thank you~
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Would changing degrees make any difference in the number and content of the physics courses that you actually complete?
 
Which courses are required for the BA? Which courses are required for the BSc?

Some chemistry knowledge is needed for a good understanding of Physics - not much, but some; and Chemistry and Physics overlap, although have greatly different study goals. Undergraduate Physics degree of any or either kind will require at least one year of "General Chemistry".
 
Bit Britain-specific but I was wondering, what's the best path to take for A-Levels out of the following (I know Y10 seems a bit early to be thinking about A-levels, but my choice will impact what I do this year/ in y11) I (almost) definitely want to do physics at University - so keep that in mind... The subjects that I'm almost definitely going to take are Maths, Further Maths and Physics, and I'm taking a fast track programme which means that I'll be taking AS computer science at the end...
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...
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...

Similar threads

Replies
21
Views
4K
Replies
5
Views
461
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
13
Views
4K
Back
Top