Schools Does a BA in physics look bad for grad school?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the decision to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Physics instead of a Bachelor of Science (BS) while incorporating a computer science minor. The primary concern is whether this choice would negatively impact eligibility for PhD programs in physics. It is noted that the key factor for graduate school admissions is not the degree type but the specific courses completed. As long as the individual takes essential upper division courses such as Quantum Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Classical Mechanics, and Statistical Mechanics, along with a year-long lab, they should be well-prepared for the physics GRE and graduate applications. The consensus emphasizes that the content of the coursework is more critical than the degree designation itself.
CyberShot
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Okay, so I originally planned a B.S. but because I wanted to pursue a computer science minor and still graduate in 4 years, I thought about doing a BA in physics. Basically, I'm substituting the difference in BS and BA physics units with computer science courses.

Does this look bad for PhD programs? I'll be taking like 20 less physics units or so than with the B.S., but it shouldn't affect my physics GRE preparation either way because that stuff tests you on mostly lower division work, and maybe one or two upper div QM or thermo/stat mech.
Is it better to stick with the B.S?

Thanks
 
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What is the difference between at BS and a BA at your institution?
 
Norman said:
What is the difference between at BS and a BA at your institution?
About 20 upper division physics elective units beyond what I think is normally required for grad school.
 
When is the deadline to change your major? Just apply with a declared BS and after transcripts are out change to BA. If you're worried at all.
 
It's not the degree name that matters, it's the courses you are taking. If you have upper division QM, E&M, Classical Mechanics, Stat Mech and a year-long lab, you'll be in good shape.
 
CyberShot said:
About 20 upper division physics elective units beyond what I think is normally required for grad school.

I have no idea what that means. What are the class differences. As Vanadium pointed out, what matters is the classes you have taken. Are you still taking the standard upper level QM, EM, CM and StatMech/Thermo?
 
Norman said:
I have no idea what that means. What are the class differences. As Vanadium pointed out, what matters is the classes you have taken. Are you still taking the standard upper level QM, EM, CM and StatMech/Thermo?

Yes, I go to a UC, and over here the BA still requires those standard courses and lab.
 
Vanadium 50 said:
It's not the degree name that matters, it's the courses you are taking. If you have upper division QM, E&M, Classical Mechanics, Stat Mech and a year-long lab, you'll be in good shape.
This.
I made a thread asking if there is a major difference between having a BA and BS, and this quote is pretty much what I got from it.
 

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