Stretching to a Double Major: Is it Worth It for Grad School?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision to pursue a double major in Physics and Mathematics versus focusing solely on Physics to improve GPA for graduate school applications to prestigious institutions like Berkeley and Caltech. Participants emphasize the importance of maintaining a strong GPA, suggesting that a 3.5 GPA in Physics alone may be more favorable than a lower GPA with a double major. They also highlight the value of strong recommendation letters and undergraduate research experience in the admissions process. Ultimately, the consensus leans towards the benefits of a double major if managed effectively, as it can enhance academic credentials and provide additional opportunities for recommendations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of GPA calculation and its impact on graduate school admissions
  • Familiarity with the requirements for a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics
  • Knowledge of the admissions processes at top-tier universities like Berkeley and Caltech
  • Awareness of the importance of undergraduate research and recommendation letters
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the specific GPA requirements for graduate programs at Berkeley and Caltech
  • Explore strategies for balancing a double major in Physics and Mathematics
  • Investigate opportunities for undergraduate research projects in Physics
  • Learn about effective ways to secure strong recommendation letters from faculty
USEFUL FOR

Undergraduate students considering a double major, academic advisors, and anyone interested in optimizing their graduate school applications in the fields of Physics and Mathematics.

Pengwuino
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Ok so I have something to consider. I have enough units and will ahve enough units through summer class to be able to graduate in just a total of 3 years with a bs in physics but i figure that's not going to look that great to berkeley or caltech with a not so good GPA so i have 2 options. Should i stretch it to the normal 4 years and take easy classes as fillers to boost my GPA or should i stretch it to 4 years and attempt to get a BA in math too (not not a minor, the degree)?

Also, if I am unable to finish the math degree by graduation, can i still continue it if i attend the same school for my masters in physics (with plans on later attending those better colleges for my phd)?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
1) Get good grades in physics

2) Get good grades in math and get the Math degree.

I understand keeping your grades up is hard, but you really have to push it, your future depends on this. :p
 
Are you presenting me with 2 options or shold i do both lol.

The thing is, I am pretty sure i would be able to get better GPA and better grades in physics classes if i stuck with physics only for 4 years then i would overall if i tried for both degrees in that 4 year period.
 
Like retaking physics classes to get better grades? Screw it. Take the math degree and do well in it. If you're going to spend another year doing something, it might as well be learning something knew instead of repeating stuff you know for no real reason.

PL
 
No, i wouldn't get grades bad enough to allow for grade changing (D's and F's). I was thinken maybe in all my physics classes i would get a 3.0 if i went for the math major and maybe 3.5 if i didnt.

What i want to know is what's better, a say, 3.0 GPA overall and the 2 degrees (masters in physics and ba in math) or a 3.5 GPA and just the masters in physics. These GE classes are just beating me down for some reason (even though there so easy! which pisses me off even more)
 
I don't know then. Knowing the extra math would be a plus in physics, but having lower grades would be bad...

PL
 
Yah but what would berkeley or caltech think when it comes to admitting me.
 
I don't know. I am not Berkely or Caltech. Since people here have said the amount of time it takes to you get your degree(s) is irrelevent, then they will say "he has two degrees, but he's so-so at both".

PL
 
Yah that's how i think it'll be. Its going to be "hmm, so so with 2 degrees" or "wow he's really good with physics". I feel iffy about emailing someone at both universities because i think last time i asked a question like that, i pretty much got a useless answer from them.
 
  • #10
INAAE (I'm Not An Admissions Expert),

but isn't a 3.5 (even in sciences) low for graduate studies at Caltech?

You will some -really- excellent recommendation letters and even an undergraduate research project under your belt.

At least, that's what I'd think for somewhere like Caltech...
 
  • #11
It shouldn't be about gpa, it should be about learning what interests you. That's idealistic, but keep it in mind. I have nothing to do with admissions either but if I had to choose between two candidates:

1)Has A/B average in physics classes and A's in irrelevant filler courses giving an A average.

2)Has A/B average in physics classes and B's in a math major (or even minor) course requirements giving a B average.

I'd take 2) everytime. Easy filler classes aren't likely to impress anyone, an A in underwater basic weaving does not mean you're suddenly better at physics since your gpa is higher. In the US, don't you have to send your entire transcripts (or at least the last two years) so they'll see any junk you've taken?
 
  • #12
Another advantage to consider is that if you double major, you'll have two departments from which you could solicit recommendations!
 
  • #13
make sure you make the cut off grade...have decent projects underyour belt...and good recommendations...if y0ou can guarantee that then i'd gof ro the double major...added bonus if you can code in C/C++
 

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