Math to astrophysics likeliness?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the likelihood of pursuing a master's or PhD in astrophysics after completing a dual major in mathematics and applied mathematics. Participants explore the potential challenges and considerations involved in this transition, particularly in relation to foundational knowledge in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the likelihood of transitioning to astrophysics graduate programs with a background in mathematics, seeking insights into potential risks and challenges.
  • Another participant references a previous thread, suggesting that advice regarding graduate school applications may not be applicable to someone still deciding on their primary degree.
  • A different participant argues that a physics major or a double major in physics and mathematics is the most logical path for someone interested in astrophysics, emphasizing the importance of core physics knowledge for graduate studies.
  • One contributor shares their experience, noting that graduate students in astronomy and astrophysics are required to complete core graduate physics courses, implying that a strong foundation in physics is crucial for success in these fields.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity of a physics major for pursuing astrophysics. While some emphasize the importance of a physics background, others seek alternative pathways without reaching a consensus on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

There is an acknowledgment that the advice given may depend on individual circumstances, such as the specific requirements of graduate programs and the participant's current academic standing.

BHL 20
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What would the chances be of getting a msc/phd in astrophysics after a dual major in maths and applied maths. Please don't just tell me to major in physics/astrophysics, i would like to know would it be likely/unlikely/what problems might there be in the transition, to know how much of a risk this would be. thanks
 
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jimmyly said:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=64966

I have already seen that thread and can i point out that the advise offered in that thread (for example taking the GRE test) is only useful for people who have already completed their primary degree. I'm still deciding which primary degree to apply for . . . .
 
BHL 20 said:
I have already seen that thread and can i point out that the advise offered in that thread (for example taking the GRE test) is only useful for people who have already completed their primary degree. I'm still deciding which primary degree to apply for . . . .

i don't understand what advice you want then. You specifically said "after a dual major in maths and applied maths" and "don't just tell me to major in physics/astrophysics". if you want to go into astrophysics the most logical route to take is a physics major or even a double major physics/math since astrophysics is the application of physics to astronomy. But you don't want us to tell you that, then the thread i posted answers your question about going to graduate school for non-physics degree holders.
 
In grad school I took a couple of courses with some astronomy grad students - they all had to take the same core graduate physics courses that the physics PhDs did. Likewise for the astrophysics PhDs that I have interviewed. So you need to be prepared for physics graduate school - that is, you need to really understand and be able to apply the material in the core undergrad physics courses. For most people that means doing a physics major - if you really want to do astrophysics in grad school it doesn't make much sense to not prepare for it during undergrad. Look at university web sites for physics/astro departments and see for yourself what the requirements are. I think you will find that the advice in the thread you were pointed to is spot on.

jason
 

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