Double Majoring Medicene & Physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility and implications of double majoring in medicine and physics. Participants explore the workload, potential burnout, and the relationship between the two fields, particularly in the context of different educational systems.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses enthusiasm for both subjects and considers the financial stability a double major could provide, questioning whether it is too much pressure.
  • Another participant warns that medicine entails a significant workload with little overlap with physics, suggesting that a double major could lead to burnout.
  • A participant clarifies that in the US, students typically do not earn a bachelor's degree in medicine but rather in another field, often biology, while fulfilling pre-med requirements.
  • It is noted that medical schools in the US have specific course requirements for admission, allowing students to major in various fields as long as they complete the necessary courses.
  • One suggestion is made to consider biophysics as a major, which integrates aspects of both medicine and physics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the viability of a double major in medicine and physics, with some cautioning against it due to workload concerns while others highlight the potential benefits and alternative pathways.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects varying educational structures and expectations in different countries, particularly between the US and other regions, which may influence the feasibility of pursuing a double major.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a double major in medicine and physics, educators advising on academic pathways, and individuals interested in the intersection of these fields.

LightingBolt
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Hi,

I enjoy both subjects and it also adds financial and job stability if say Physics does not work out (due to scarcity of it in Job market). Next, medicine also has nice pay which is very important especially in later life.

I would put maximum effort into the double major. Is double majoring medicine and physics too much pressure? Is it wise to take it?

I LOVE both subjects!
 
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In my country at least, medicine is a very very big workload. And there is very little overlap with physics. So no, I do not recommend a double major at all. It seems like the road to a burn-out. Now in the US, things might be different since (people are invited to say I don't know anything) you only apply to med school after you already have a bachelors.
 
Yes, in the US, one normally doesn't receive a bachelor's degree in medicine, or rather, pre-medical studies. Instead, one majors in some other field as an undergraduate, usually biology (but other fields are possible including physics), and takes additional courses outside the major as necessary, to prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Applying to medical school is much like applying to graduate school in other fields: grades, MCAT scores, letters of recommendation, work or internship experience in a medical setting. I don't remember seeing a college or university that offers a bachelor's degree in pre-medical studies, but I wouldn't be surprised. It's a big country with many colleges and universities.
 
I believe that medical schools in the US have specific course requirements for admission to their programs, You may major in anything as long as you get the required courses. for the specific medical school.

See for example Yale's requirements

https://medicine.yale.edu/education/admissions/apply/premed.aspx
 
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You should look into biophysics many schools offer this as a major and it ties in medicine with physics.
 

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