Preparing for a Minor in Physics: How Can I Bridge the Gap?

[appplejack]

Hello.

I'm in my second year at University of Toronto in Canada. I tried a bunch of course and I found that I have strong inclination for sciences & foreign languages but not much for economics, political science and other social science. I've always been interested in physics since I was young (although not really good at it in high school). I did calculus and geometry math in high school here in Toronto and took physics courses up to Gr.12. So I have a little bit of background. But I'm a mature student and it's been years since I took the last physics course in high school.I might need to do a lot of catching up.

I want to know what I can do to bridge the gap/prepare to do minor in physics.
It would be ideal to talk to someone who already is studying or has done physics in the same university. But I'd really appreciate any comment.

A couple of questions and ideas: (please add any recommendation)
1.Brush up on math: Calculus. But is there anything else I should study besides Calculus?
2.Read a good introductory book on physics: Any recommendation?
3.Read and do physics on my own and in this forum.

I also heard that doing computer programming and computer designing could be useful with physics in the real world (in the job market). Upon graduation I'm going to look into a career in military or computer. (I plan to acquire few CompTIA certificates)
Please let me know.

Thank you for your time.

 

[dacruick]

Hi AppleJack,

I'm currently on a co-op placement in Toronto, but I'm studying physics at Waterloo.

Calculus is predominant, but if you want to do any quantum then you will need a good linear algebra course or two. At my job, I am mostly programming in python, I would say that takes up about 70% of my time. So being familiar with computers will always be a bonus to any future employer. I wouldn't necessarily pursue computer designing with physics, I'm not sure that they overlap well.

And as for a minor in physics, I don't know how many credits you need but you will certainly need to take your introductory physics courses at UoT.

What program are you enrolled in right now?

 

[appplejack]

Hi dacruick,
Thanks for your comment. Could you tell me more about what your co-op consists of?
I did very basic python in my comp sci course last year. While I'm good with using computer in terms of troubleshooting, repairing, building pc, etc, programming is my strong suit. Last year (first year) I tried different courses and this year I'm pretty much doing the same think unfortunately. I concluded that social sciences and arts subject are quite irrelevant to what I want to do later. And since I'm thinking about a career in the military as being a tech specialist, I think training in physics would be the best decisions. Engineering, I don't think I can spare another year to make transition.
I know that the last time I said that I was thinking about doing minor but I think majoring in would be even better. The math requirements are similar.
Thanks again.
Talk to you soon.