How Much Overlap B/n Physics & Math Major?

[wlcgeek]

How much overlap is there usually between a physics and math degree?

Is it 50%+? And does being good or interested in one usually translate into being good at or interested in the other?

 

[demonelite123]

Math and physics degrees usually require the same lower division math courses such as linear algebra, multivariable and vector calculus, differential equations, etc.

As for upper division courses, math and physics will be quite different. pure math courses will be more heavily focused on proofs and abstract results that may or may not be of interest to physics majors. physics courses (in my experience) dwell less on the proofs and more on using mathematical tools to make calculations.

So the overlap I would say is below 50%.

Being good/interested in one does not imply being good/interested in the other. both require different skill sets and different ways of thinking. though it is not uncommon to be good at/interested in both.

 

[SophusLies]

It depends on the professor and how the courses are taught. I had an analysis professor that was a mathematical physicist and loved to throw in physics talk in his lectures. On the other hand, some math professors don't know much physics and will treat the class as a pure math class.

 

[Eleknar]

At my school a physics major would have to take, I think, 8 additional math classes in order to double major in both math and physics. Some of these can be taken together, but, ultimately, they would add about one additional year.

 

[Matrix0]

I can say that there is a significant amount of overlap between a physics and math degree. In fact, many universities offer combined degrees in physics and mathematics, recognizing the strong connection between the two fields.

The exact percentage of overlap may vary depending on the specific courses and curriculum of each program, but it is safe to say that the overlap is well above 50%. This is because physics relies heavily on mathematical principles and equations to describe and understand the natural world, and math provides the necessary tools and language for solving complex physics problems.

Furthermore, being good or interested in one field often translates into being good at or interested in the other. Many students who excel in math find that they also have a strong aptitude for physics, and vice versa. This is because both fields require strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as a deep understanding of abstract concepts.

However, it is important to note that while there is a strong overlap between physics and math, they are still distinct disciplines with their own unique focus and methods of inquiry. So while having a strong foundation in one may be beneficial for the other, it is not a guarantee of success in both.

In conclusion, a physics and math degree have a significant amount of overlap, and being good or interested in one can often lead to success in the other. But it is important to recognize and appreciate the unique aspects of each field in order to truly excel in both.