Does a BA in physics look bad for grad school?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the implications of pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in physics versus a Bachelor of Science (BS) for graduate school applications, particularly for PhD programs. Participants explore concerns about the adequacy of coursework and the impact of degree type on admissions.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern that a BA in physics, which includes fewer physics units due to a computer science minor, may negatively impact their PhD applications.
  • Another participant questions the specific differences between the BA and BS programs at the institution, particularly regarding upper division physics elective units.
  • Several participants emphasize that the specific courses taken, such as upper division quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and classical mechanics, are more important than the degree title itself.
  • There is a suggestion to apply with a declared BS and potentially change to a BA later if there are concerns about the degree type.
  • One participant confirms that their BA program still requires standard upper-level physics courses and lab work, which may alleviate some concerns about the degree's impact on graduate school readiness.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the courses taken are more critical than the degree designation itself, but there remains uncertainty about the specific implications of the BA versus BS distinction for graduate school applications.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note a lack of clarity regarding the exact course requirements and differences between the BA and BS programs, which may affect the discussion's conclusions.

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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