Mathematical physics at UC Santa Barbara

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the reputation of the Mathematics Department at UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) for students interested in mathematical physics. While UCSB is considered decent compared to top-tier programs like Texas at Austin and Michigan, it is noted for its strong theoretical physics focus, particularly in areas such as Quantum Field Theory (QFT) and differential geometry. The presence of professors with joint appointments in both mathematics and physics enhances the opportunity for mathematics graduate students to engage with cutting-edge research in mathematical physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Quantum Field Theory (QFT)
  • Familiarity with differential geometry
  • Knowledge of representation theory
  • Basic concepts in theoretical physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the joint appointment faculty at UCSB in mathematics and physics
  • Explore the latest research in Quantum Field Theory
  • Investigate the intersection of differential geometry and physics
  • Review graduate program requirements for mathematics at UCSB
USEFUL FOR

Prospective graduate students in mathematics, particularly those interested in mathematical physics, as well as academic advisors and researchers in theoretical physics.

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I will be applying to graduate schools in mathematics for Fall 2009. From what I've heard, the UCSB mathematics department is decent though not as good as some of the other mathematics departments I've been looking at (like Texas at Austin, Michigan, Illinois at UC, and University of Washington). However, my interest is in mathematical physics (i.e. QFT, relativity, the intersections between differential geometry and physics, representation theory, etc.) and I hear that UCSB is well known in theoretical physics and two professors have joint appointments with the mathematics and physics departments. Therefore I am wondering if as a mathematics graduate student (I wouldn't want to apply to the physics program because lots of the core physics courses do not interest me much whereas most of pure math appeals to me), I'll be able to take advantage of the breakthrough mathematical physics work being done there. Any opinions on the matter?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Anyone?
 
You should ask someone at UCSB.
 

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