Choosing a second major with physics

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SUMMARY

A third-year physics major is considering adding a second major to enhance job marketability. The options under consideration are applied mathematics and financial modeling, both of which are offered by the applied math department. The student seeks to understand how each major complements their physics background and the potential career opportunities in finance versus physics. The discussion emphasizes the importance of aligning academic choices with career aspirations, particularly in securing internships and future employment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of physics principles and theories
  • Familiarity with applied mathematics concepts
  • Knowledge of financial modeling techniques
  • Awareness of job market trends in STEM fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the curriculum and career outcomes for an applied mathematics major
  • Explore financial modeling courses and their relevance to finance careers
  • Investigate internship opportunities related to both majors
  • Analyze job market demands for physics graduates versus those with financial modeling expertise
USEFUL FOR

Undergraduate students in physics or applied mathematics, career advisors, and anyone evaluating interdisciplinary studies for enhanced employability in finance or STEM fields.

dcrisci
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Hello, I am a third year physics major and am enjoying it very much, however I have realized that with only a honours major in physics I am not that marketable as an individual and will probably need to pursue a masters or PhD.

I am interested in applied math and am able to add an applied math major to my first physics major, and was told this would help me both on getting a job after university as well as complements my physics knowledge with more in depth knowledge towards the math I am doing. I was about to begin choosing courses for this major when I realized I am able to also major in financial modelling (part of the app. math department). I was looking at the courses I would take with the financial modelling major and am quite interested in learning these as well

So now I am led to this, as I am probably going to add a second major to my first (physics); should I major in applied math or financial modelling?

I understand the straight applied math courses would give me a great deal of understanding of the math done within physics but I am not sure if I will end up doing something in physics. Would this combination still allow me to have a great amount of job opportunities, possibly in the financial side of the world as well?

Would majoring in financial modelling be good as I would have perhaps two areas of study, so two things to fall back on as a career?

I am also interested in trying to get an internship but would like to decide on my second major to begin that process.

Any input is greatly appreciated, thanks!
 
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I guess it just depends on whether you want to go work in finance or just keep on doing physics. If you can answer this you can also choose the second major.
 
Last edited:
I want to keep my options open, if I was to do the applied math major would I have the knowledge to be in finance or would I need that financial modelling major to get into that line of work? I was told it would be good to have something to fall back on if I had the financial modelling major under my belt if physics didn't go well after my undergrad years (as I was told I would probably need to pursue a PhD in physics to get somewhere )
 

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