Math to astrophysics likeliness?

[BHL 20]

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

 

[jimmyly]

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=64966

 

[BHL 20]

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 . . . .

 

[jimmyly]

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.

 

[jasonRF]

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