Interested only in theory/mathematical physics. What should I focus on?

  • Thread starter Thread starter ahsanxr
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Focus Physics
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision-making process for a second-year undergraduate student torn between focusing on mathematics or physics, specifically in the realm of theoretical and mathematical physics. The student considers a math-heavy path with courses like Real Analysis and Graduate Quantum Mechanics 1, versus a physics-heavy path including E&M II and Statistical Mechanics. The implications of each choice on future graduate school applications in both fields are critically examined, emphasizing the importance of lab experience for physics programs and advanced math coursework for mathematical physics programs.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Real Analysis and its applications in physics
  • Familiarity with Quantum Mechanics principles
  • Knowledge of Electromagnetism (E&M) concepts
  • Basic principles of Statistical Mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the requirements for graduate programs in theoretical physics
  • Explore the significance of lab experience in physics education
  • Investigate the role of advanced mathematics in mathematical physics
  • Learn about the curriculum differences between mathematics and physics graduate programs
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for undergraduate students majoring in mathematics or physics, academic advisors, and anyone considering a career in theoretical or mathematical physics.

ahsanxr
Messages
350
Reaction score
6
I'm a second year undergrad, currently majoring both in mathematics and physics. However I've decided that the time has come where I should stop taking both classes evenly and start devoting more of my time to one field. However I'm unsure which field that should be if I'm interested primarily in theoretical/mathematical physics. To give you guys a better idea here's what I was thinking about taking in fall 2012.

If I go math-heavy:

Real analysis
Topology
Graduate Algebra 1
Graduate Quantum Mechanics 1

If I go physics-heavy:

Either Topology or Analysis
Elementary Lab 1
Graduate Quantum Mechanics 1
E&M II
Statistical Mechanics.

Which side should I focus on in your opinions? If I do decide to go math-heavy I probably won't be doing the 3 required lab semesters of the physics BS, and hence I won't have a formal degree in physics although I would have taken classes up til QFT by the time I graduate. How would physics schools view that if I decide to apply to them for theory? Similarly if I decide decide to focus on physics I won't be able to take a lot of math grad classes. How then would that be viewed by the math/mathematical physics graduate schools?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You asked the same question here.

It's better to explain what was unsatisfactory about the answer than to just ask the question over again.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 119 ·
4
Replies
119
Views
16K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
Replies
16
Views
3K