What my undergrad degree(s) should be

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision-making process for selecting a second major alongside an undergraduate degree in Physics, with a focus on the relevance of Astronomy and Mathematics for future graduate studies. Participants explore the implications of their choices on preparation for graduate school in fields related to Astronomy and Astrophysics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about whether to pursue a double major in Astronomy or Mathematics alongside their Physics degree, seeking advice on which would be more beneficial for graduate studies.
  • Another participant clarifies that typically, students would earn one degree with two majors or concentrations, rather than two separate degrees.
  • A different participant suggests that if the student is interested in Astronomy, they should choose that as their second major, noting that most Physics majors complete the necessary mathematics as part of their curriculum.
  • There is a mention that while the mathematics involved in special relativity is relatively straightforward, general relativity is considered an upper-level graduate course, indicating a distinction in the complexity of the subjects.
  • The original poster acknowledges the terminology error regarding degrees and reflects on the idea that completing the math required for Physics may suffice for Astronomy as well.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the notion that a second major is more accurately described as a concentration rather than a separate degree. However, there is no consensus on which second major—Astronomy or Mathematics—would be more advantageous for graduate studies.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions about the curriculum requirements for Astronomy and Mathematics that may vary by institution. The discussion does not resolve the specific mathematical prerequisites for graduate programs in Astronomy or Astrophysics.

Who May Find This Useful

Undergraduate students considering double majors in STEM fields, particularly those interested in Physics, Astronomy, or Mathematics, may find this discussion relevant.

nasijen
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Hello,

I am currently halfway through my undergraduate in Physics, and planning to go to graduate school in 2 years or so. I initially wanted to do Astronomy as an undergrad but I was told doing Physics in undergrad is much better. This wasn't a problem because I loved and still love Physics. I'm considering either picking up an Astronomy double degree or a Mathematics double degree but I'm not sure which to pick. I finished all of differential/integral calculus and I could take some analysis classes next year, but I'm really not sure what mathematics Graduate school really wants for Astronomers (or Astrophysicists..i'm really not sure what the difference is).

I know Astronomy requires all the undergrad physics + general relativity. I studied special relatively and the mathematics were very basic.

Can anyone help me in choosing the 2nd degree?

Thanks,
 
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Unless things are different in your institution, you won't be getting two degrees. You'll be getting one degree with two majors or concentrations.
 
If you're interested in astronomy, pick that as your second major (you're not actually getting two degrees, that would take 8 years). Most physics majors have taken all the math they need as part of that. While special relativity math is pretty easy, general relativity is an upper level graduate course. It's not an undergrad course.
 
Thanks for the replies. Yeah, sorry for the wrong terminology, i meant major by degree. I suppose if I do all the math required by physics, then I automatically do all the math required by Astronomy..
 

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