Double major in Math and physics OR MS degree in physics

[physics8726]

HI,

I have two choices right now to finish before graduation:

Double major in physics and applied math And MS in physics degree ( concurrent program)

I could only finish one of them in May next year. After graduation, I want to apply for a PhD program in finance or financial engineering. Which choice is more helpful?

I appreciate your advice!

 

[Mindscrape]

While I have never been on an admissions committee, and I don't really know anything about finance engineering, I would think having the double major (as long as they will produce good grades) would be better. Graduate schools will like the fact that you officially know math. A masters in physics may be helpful for getting into a physics program, but I doubt it would hold much sway for finance, it may even be hurtful if you really wanted to pursue a different degree. Why not just go for an applied math graduate degree with an emphasis on some type of economics or finance? There's my completely biased perspective.

 

[physics8726]

While I have never been on an admissions committee, and I don't really know anything about finance engineering, I would think having the double major (as long as they will produce good grades) would be better. Graduate schools will like the fact that you officially know math. A masters in physics may be helpful for getting into a physics program, but I doubt it would hold much sway for finance, it may even be hurtful if you really wanted to pursue a different degree. Why not just go for an applied math graduate degree with an emphasis on some type of economics or finance? There's my completely biased perspective.

Thanks for your advice. I also think the double major is better. I cannot go to applied math graduate degree because I only started applied math study last semester. I cannot finish it in May next year. Actually when I took physics courses, I took some other economic courses but not declare a minor. Is it better to declare a minor in economics?