Physics major looking for some advice

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics major at UCF contemplating a math minor while navigating course requirements. The student is currently enrolled in Calculus I and plans to take Calculus II, Physics I, and other advanced courses, including Matrix and Linear Algebra. They are considering Mathematical Modeling I for their 4000-level elective but are unsure whether to take additional proof-based courses. The student seeks advice on whether to continue with physics or switch majors, as well as recommendations for minors, particularly in Computer Science or Information Technology.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus (Calculus I, II, III)
  • Familiarity with linear algebra and matrix theory
  • Basic programming knowledge, particularly in C
  • Awareness of physics coursework and specialization options
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the curriculum for a Computer Science minor at UCF
  • Explore the course offerings for Astronomy and their availability
  • Investigate career outcomes for Physics vs. Information Technology majors
  • Learn about Mathematical Modeling and its applications in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students majoring in physics, those considering a math or computer science minor, and individuals exploring career paths in science and technology fields.

illidari
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Hi

I am a physics major at UCF and currently have decided to pick up a math minor. The physics program is requiring calc 1,2,3 and differentials. The math minor is the same + a 3000 level course + a 4000 level course.
I decided to take matrix and linear algebra as the 3000 level elective. I am leaning towards taking Mathematical Modeling I for the 4000 level course. I heard recommendations of Linear algebra, but this class requires a proof class and the linear matrix class to take. I would satisfy the minor without it. Should I suck up the extra time and do it?

I am currently completing calc I and plan to take Calc II and Phy I over the summer. In the fall then I would takes Differientals, Calc III, Phy II, Intro to C Program, and Macroeconomics. In the spring I would take PHY III, the matrix/linear algebra course, intro to theoretical physics, a gen ed, and an undecided 5th course.

I was wondering if I could receive some advice. I am still at a point I could basically switch to any science major without any problem almost. Would you recommend not doing physics? I have been leaning towards almost everything but chemistry. I was interested in the information technology majors but worry about those being possibly low income?

Is there any minors you would recommend? Computer science? Would an information technology minor be a waist of my time?^^ Thank you
 
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Programming is needed for any Physics Major, so get comfortable with it. It is not a waste in my opinion. You can do a language minor for fun
 
What programming focus should i do? I have several options:

Major prefers Intro to C for the general ed requirement, going to consider this as required.

Current plan of specialization:
Astronomy but UCF is not exactly offering any astronomy courses currently. (Only 1 of like 5 required)

Or I could switch to Specialize within computer science:
computer science I + II
computer methods in physics
numerical scienceInformation Technology Minor:
Computer Science I
Intro To C
*Pick 3*+1 More/elective (Some other possible electives, not exactly listed, I assume the specialization covers it)
Internet applications
Database concepts
computer architecture concepts
computer systems concepts
desktop/internet publishing

Astronomy Choice: 5, Computer Science: 3

Computer Science Minor:
My current understanding is that a computer science specialization can earn the minor.
intro to C
Intro to object oriented programming
computer science I and II
Introduction to discrete structure or foundations of discrete mathematics
Comp. Organization

Astronomy Choice: 5, Computer Science: 3

I'm not that worried about completing all 5 if they do actually OFFER the astronomy classes. Would the information technology become to far off into another field? Or should I just skip the minor and target specific classes.
You can do a language minor for fun
Foreign language? Noooo. NO. That is not fun lol. :( You have to force me to take one of those.

Just wondering opinions :)

Currently going to take intro to c and see how I like it. I'll ultimately decide on how I do on the class :)
 
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