Is My 2.5-Year College Plan for a Physics/Math Double Major Well-Balanced?

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The discussion centers on a student's academic plan for completing an associate's degree with a double major in physics and mathematics, aiming for a PhD in physics, particularly theoretical physics. The student outlines their coursework across three semesters, expressing concern about finishing the degree in 2.5 years instead of the typical two years, especially since they plan to take an internship during the summer session. Responses indicate that completing the degree in 2.5 years is not viewed negatively, especially given the valuable internship experience and the rigorous coursework. The course load is considered well-balanced, combining essential subjects in math, programming, and physics, which will provide a strong foundation for transferring to a university to pursue bachelor's degrees. Overall, the academic plan is seen as solid and beneficial for future educational goals.
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Semester 3
Introduction to Computers 3 15
Scientific programming 3
Calculus I 4
College Survival 1
E Physics I 4

Semester 4
Calculus II 4 15
College Chem 4
Mathematical Analysis III 3
Engineering Physics II 4

Semester 5
Calc III 4 16
Linear Algebra 3
Differential Equations 4
Engineering Physics III 5

This will get me an associates in double major for physics/mathematics-going for a PhD in physics (leaning toward theoretical)

I will finish my associates in 2.5 years. I could perhaps finish if I decide to do just a physics major in two years (using the summer session). But I am not using the summer session because next summer I have the internship. Is this a bad idea, does it look bad if I finish an associates in 2.5 years?

And Does my class work look evened out through the semesters?

Maybe I'm making a big deal out of it, but its a big deal to me hehe. Criticism needed.
 
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Nano-Passion said:
Semester 3
Introduction to Computers 3 15
Scientific programming 3
Calculus I 4
College Survival 1
E Physics I 4

Semester 4
Calculus II 4 15
College Chem 4
Mathematical Analysis III 3
Engineering Physics II 4

Semester 5
Calc III 4 16
Linear Algebra 3
Differential Equations 4
Engineering Physics III 5

Looks pretty solid to me. After you transfer to a university, you'll have a good background in material to finish off your bachelor degrees in math and physics and go for your PhD.

Nano-Passion said:
I will finish my associates in 2.5 years. I could perhaps finish if I decide to do just a physics major in two years (using the summer session). But I am not using the summer session because next summer I have the internship. Is this a bad idea, does it look bad if I finish an associates in 2.5 years?

Of course not. The fact that you have an internship and you're preparing yourself for dual majors speaks volumes. I can't say what every university looks for, but if I were looking at your transcript, you would be rated higher than someone who finished their associates in 2 years with a standard major.


Nano-Passion said:
And Does my class work look evened out through the semesters?

Yes. You've got a good mix of math, programming and physics courses in there.
 
Nano-Passion said:
College Survival 1

Seems legit.
 
Nabeshin said:
Seems legit.

Lmaoo. Its a required course for my associates, its a community college.
 

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