Physics major needs advice on choosing a minor

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics major seeking advice on whether to choose a minor in chemistry or pursue a double major in mathematics, with a focus on how these choices may impact future graduate studies in cosmology, nuclear physics, or theoretical physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that a minor in mathematics would likely be more beneficial for graduate studies in physics.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of programming courses, stating they are universally useful, regardless of the specific field.
  • A participant mentions that their university's physics chairman encourages a minor in mathematics for those interested in research, aligning with their own aspirations in nuclear astrophysics.
  • Concerns are raised about the feasibility of minoring in mathematics at different universities, with one participant noting that their school does not allow it for physics majors.
  • One participant proposes considering a minor in computer science, while another expresses disinterest in that field, preferring chemistry and mathematics instead.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the value of a minor in mathematics versus a double major, as well as the relevance of computer science courses. There is no consensus on the best path forward for the original poster.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention specific institutional policies regarding minors and majors, which may vary by university. There are also references to personal experiences and recommendations from faculty, which may not be universally applicable.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a physics major and evaluating options for minors or double majors, particularly those interested in graduate studies in physics or related fields.

JFrankParnell
Messages
9
Reaction score
0
I'm going for a B.S. in physics and haven't decided yet whether I'm going to use my elective credits to minor in chemistry double major in B.S. mathematics. Eventually, I'd like to do graduate work in cosmology or nuclear or theoretical physics. Which of these two options (if either) would be more helpful to me in grad school?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Probably math, but if you can/have to take non-physics courses, you'll likely find programming courses to be far more universally useful.
 
Hi JFrankParnell,

The physics chairman at my university highly encourages a minor in mathematics along with a physics major for students looking to do research in physics. I see you've also mentioned cosmology and nuclear physics. I'm aspiring to work in nuclear astrophysics and am double majoring in astrophysics and materials chemistry for undergrad (no nuclear engineering at my school). I asked a nuclear astrophysicist who came to my school what he would recommend students to major in if they would like to work in his field. He asked me what I'm majoring in and told me my current path is a good one.

You may also want to check Zapper Z's thread "So you want to be a physicist." I see that Lavabug mentioned programming. The astrophysics professor at my school said that an object oriented language such as C++ is good and she also recommends visual basic and FORTRAN.

Good luck with everything!

Oh and double major for materials chem is only 10 extra classes for me. Are you on a strict time limit for graduation?
 
Are you on a strict time limit for graduation?

Not really.

The physics chairman at my university highly encourages a minor in mathematics along with a physics major for students looking to do research in physics.

At the school I'll be attending, they don't allow physics majors to minor in mathematics. If I want to do extra work in math, I'll have to do a double major. I assumed pretty much all universities were the same.Good luck with everything!

Thanks!
 
how about getting a minor in CS?
 
chill_factor said:
how about getting a minor in CS?

Not really my cup of tea. The subjects I'm most interested in besides physics are chemistry and mathematics. Never really been much interested in CS.
 

Similar threads

Chem Eng Masters: Major for Chemistry/Phys or Chem/Mech?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Programs Should I major in Physics & Astronomy or Physics & Math?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
Courses Pure physics vs. adding a math major?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Courses What minor/major to combine with NucE?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Programs Is it too late for me to get into Physics?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
What's the best major between Physics & Chemistry for entering MS in Nuclear Engineering?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
4K
Programs Help: Physics major minoring in Spanish
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Courses Choosing courses for mathematics minor to support my physics major
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Programs Math Recommended for a Physics Minor (Civil Engineering Major)
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Can I pursue an MS in astrophysics with a BS in studio art?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K