Programs Should I go for a physics degree?

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A discussion highlights the challenges of pursuing a physics degree without a strong foundation in high-level math, particularly calculus. The individual expresses concern over their previous struggles with math and a lack of enthusiasm for it, despite an interest in physics. It is emphasized that taking calculus and its prerequisites is essential for success in a physics program. A solid understanding of basic geometry, functions, and algebra is necessary to excel in Calculus I, which serves as a gateway to more advanced math courses required for a physics degree. If the individual performs well in these initial math courses, they may be well-positioned to pursue a physics degree alongside their information technology studies.
mattattack
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I never did any high level math like calculus in high school. I was in a higher level math class once though, and I didn't understand any of it, such as calculus (I also didn't have the previous foundation for that math, such as algebra since I slacked off really bad in my math classes the previous years), so I dropped out of the class for the more basic ones. And I didn't really find math exceptionally appealing (I went pretty well in it though), even though I've always had a deep fascination with physics. I'm thinking about doing a physics degree along side my current information technology degree (they would complement each other well too), if I go with the physics degree, I'll have to go all the way to the PhD if I want to work in theoretical physics. But the thing is, I don't think my current math skills will cut it, I reckon I will struggle if I went for it, or I might just have an innate inability to do high level math.
 
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You should take calculus (and all its prerequisites). If you do well, then you can consider a degree in physics.
 
If you want to go for a physics degree, here is a taste of the kind of math courses that you would be expected to take:
1. Single-variable calculus (Calculus I)
2. Multivariable calculus
3. Linear Algebra
4. Ordinary differential equations

If you do well in Calculus I, then you shouldn't worry about the math since Calculus I is the prerequisite for 2., 3., and 4. And to do well in Calculus I, you only need to be comfortable with basic geometry, functions, and basic algebra. Therefore, if you're comfortable with these 3, then I don't see why you cannot go for the physics degree.
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...

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