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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the planning of a 2.5-year college curriculum for a double major in physics and mathematics, focusing on course selection, balance across semesters, and the implications of completing an associate degree in this timeframe. Participants explore the adequacy of the proposed schedule and its impact on future academic pursuits, including a potential PhD in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster outlines a detailed semester plan, expressing concern about the balance of courses and the time taken to complete an associate degree.
  • Some participants suggest that the proposed schedule appears solid and provides a good foundation for transferring to a university for a bachelor's degree.
  • There is a discussion about the value of having an internship while pursuing dual majors, with some arguing it enhances the overall academic profile.
  • Participants confirm that the course mix of math, programming, and physics is well-balanced, although one participant humorously notes the inclusion of a required course, "College Survival."

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

While some participants express confidence in the proposed plan and its balance, the original poster remains uncertain about the implications of completing the associate degree in 2.5 years. There is no clear consensus on whether this timeframe is viewed negatively.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not address specific institutional expectations or how different universities might evaluate the timeline for completing an associate degree. The discussion does not resolve whether the inclusion of the internship is beneficial or detrimental to the overall academic plan.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a double major in physics and mathematics, those planning their college coursework, and individuals interested in the implications of internships on academic profiles may find this discussion relevant.

Nano-Passion
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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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