Physics vs Astrophysics: Seeking Guidance for Major Switch

  • Context: Programs 
  • Thread starter Thread starter starstruck_
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Astrophysics Physics
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a first-year student contemplating a switch from an astrophysics major to a physics major due to dissatisfaction with astronomy coursework. The student finds the astronomy concepts repetitive and confusing, primarily due to the teaching style, which is simplified for non-science majors. Despite the desire to switch, the student is concerned about maintaining their research position at the observatory, which can be retained even if they transition to physics. The conversation highlights the importance of aligning academic interests with career goals.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts
  • Familiarity with astronomy principles
  • Knowledge of academic major requirements in physics and astrophysics
  • Awareness of research opportunities in astrophysics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the curriculum differences between physics and astrophysics majors
  • Explore potential career paths in physics versus astrophysics
  • Investigate strategies for effective learning in complex subjects
  • Connect with academic advisors for guidance on major transitions
USEFUL FOR

Students considering a major switch between physics and astrophysics, academic advisors, and individuals interested in understanding the academic challenges within these fields.

starstruck_
Messages
185
Reaction score
8
Hey, so I’m in my first year of physics and astronomy right now (currently majoring in astrophysics) and I wanted time guidance, or insight in whether I should stay in this major or switch into physics.

The reason I’m considering this is because I’m not enjoying learning astronomy- it’s a repeat of the concepts we’ve covered in physics but with different reasoning (at least that’s how my professor is explaining things) and I don’t really like that- it makes me a little uncomfortable and confused. Maybe it’ll get better next year? I don’t know, but uh that’s the only reason why. The only difference between me being in physics vs astrophysics is that I won’t have to take astronomy courses.

What sucks though is that I already have a research job at our observatory ://
I want to keep that ://

(I can still keep it even if I move onto physics and know my physics prof well enough to ask for a placement in the future though)

Thank you in advance!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What do you mean by "it makes me uncomfortable and confused"?
 
What are your long term goals (education and employment)?

Is the negative vibe toward astro limited to one professor, or has it occurred in other contexts?

Are you really in danger of losing your research job in the observatory if you switch?
 
Dishsoap said:
What do you mean by "it makes me uncomfortable and confused"?

The way we’re being explained the physics in this course is confusing (primarily because there are non science majors in the course and so it’s greatly simplified).
 

Similar threads

Admissions Am I cooked for graduate school?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Other Should I pursue a degree in physics?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Programs I'm a medical physicist, how can I get into astronomy/astrophysics?
  • · Replies 26 ·
Replies
26
Views
3K
Programs Second Bachelor's Degree in Physics
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Courses Is switching to astrophysics a better option for my future career?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Programs Should I major in Physics & Astronomy or Physics & Math?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
Programs Advice for majoring in theoretical physics
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
Programs Is a 2nd major in comp sci useful in computational physics?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Admissions Curious about my grad school prospects
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Programs Difference between an astronomy and astrophysics PhD?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K