Figuring out which (undergrad) classes to take

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a freshman's dilemma regarding whether to maintain a double major in Applied Mathematics and Physics while preparing for a graduate program in Biophysics. The student expresses concern that prioritizing the math major may limit their physics coursework, potentially affecting their appeal to PhD programs. Suggested courses include Partial Differential Equations, Advanced Statistics, and various physics classes such as Intro to Quantum and Biophysics Lab. The advice emphasizes the importance of consulting with an academic advisor and considering a math minor to balance interests in both fields.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of undergraduate course structures in STEM fields
  • Familiarity with Biophysics and its interdisciplinary nature
  • Knowledge of graduate program requirements in Physics and Biophysics
  • Basic concepts of academic advising and course planning
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the requirements for graduate programs in Biophysics
  • Explore the curriculum for a minor in Mathematics
  • Investigate the field of Mathematical Biophysics
  • Consult with academic advisors about course selection strategies
USEFUL FOR

Undergraduate students in STEM fields, particularly those interested in pursuing graduate studies in Biophysics or related disciplines, and anyone considering the balance between mathematics and physics in their academic journey.

asinoof
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I have spent the past few months incredibly conflicted. I just finished my freshman year of undergrad (at a 4-year American university) and I have discovered Biophysics, a field which I really want to pursue. However, I still love math and want to continue with my Applied Math major. I'm afraid that by keeping my math major, I will have to take less physics courses, and consequently look less appealing/be less appealing to graduate programs (PhD).
These are the remaining courses, for sophomore - senior year, I expect to take with the Double Physics and Math major, while preparing for graduate biophysics:

Math:
Partial Diffequ, Advanced Statistics, Biostatistics, Numerical Applied Methods (year long advanced course, has lots of Matlab), and Stochastic Processes

Physics:
Intro to Quantum, Physics of the Brain, (Advanced) Mechanics, (Advanced) Electricity and Magnetism, Physics of the Heart, Physical Measurements Lab, Biophysics Lab, Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics, and an elective I have yet to choose

and also the full years of intro Bio and intro chem, Organic Chem, and Physical Chem.

As you can probably see, by giving up the Math major I would able to take much more physics/computer science. I really really enjoy math, but I fully expect to apply to graduate programs in physics. Should I just drop the major?
 
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At most American universities, you do not have to specify your major(s) until the end of your second year. So a good idea is to find out what courses you could take that would be required or recommended no matter what your eventual decision is, and plan your sophomore year accordingly. Then you will have the entire year to consider and to meet with your academic advisor.
By the way, there is a field called mathematical biophysics that you could aim for.
 
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Maybe consider a math minor?
 
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