Double major in psychology and physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility and implications of pursuing a double major in psychology and physics. Participants explore the relationship between these two fields, potential career paths, and the structure of degree programs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about the perceived lack of connection between physics and psychology, questioning whether this is a positive or negative aspect.
  • Another suggests taking coursework for both majors initially and then deciding which to pursue more seriously, potentially downgrading one to a minor.
  • A participant notes that the two fields are orthogonal, indicating limited class overlap and raising concerns about the difficulty in visualizing career paths that integrate both disciplines.
  • One participant contemplates majoring in physics while pursuing minors in astronomy and math, citing a desire for job opportunities and a passion for psychology.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit a mix of agreement and uncertainty regarding the relationship between physics and psychology, with some acknowledging the challenges of combining the two while others explore alternative academic paths.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the implications of choosing a double major versus a major with minors, highlighting potential career opportunities and the structure of degree programs without resolving the complexities involved.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a double major in psychology and physics, those interested in interdisciplinary studies, and individuals exploring career options that combine elements of both fields.

Emperor
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In the school I go to you have three options for a BsC degree:
-1 specialist program
-2 majors
-1 major and 2 minors

Physics and Psychology are the subjects I enjoy the most, but I often hear they are unrelated to each other (like putting a physical science and a life science together I think?). Can that be looked at in a positive way, or solely negative? I'm currently just starting my first-year courses.
 
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Take the coursework necessary for two majors until you decide which one you like best. Then downgrade one to a minor.
 
Emperor said:
In the school I go to you have three options for a BsC degree:
-1 specialist program
-2 majors
-1 major and 2 minors

Physics and Psychology are the subjects I enjoy the most, but I often hear they are unrelated to each other (like putting a physical science and a life science together I think?). Can that be looked at in a positive way, or solely negative? I'm currently just starting my first-year courses.

I agree that they are pretty orthogonal fields of study and work. That means that you will have little class overlap between them, so you may have to take more classes than if your minor were more closely related to your major. I'm also having trouble visualizing what careers might be able to use your skills in both of those disciplines at the same time. There certainly could be some disciplines that I'm not thinking of, though. Have you been able to think of some career paths that you could pursue with this combination of skillsets, so that you can work in fields that you enjoy? :smile:
 
I was also thinking about maybe majoring in Physics still, but taking two minors over one major: a minor in astronomy and a minor in math. I mainly want to take courses related to my program because I feel there will be more opportunities for jobs that way, but I really like Psychology. It also may increase the chances of getting a job without needing further education.
 

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