Which major is more related to space-time subjects ?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the choice between two university majors, Cosmology and High Energy Particle Physics, in relation to their connection to space-time subjects. Participants explore the implications of each major for future career opportunities and academic pursuits.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses interest in space-time subjects and seeks advice on choosing between Cosmology and High Energy Particle Physics.
  • Another participant notes that both majors relate to space-time but suggests considering the definition of "space-time subjects" and mentions a standard physics major as an alternative.
  • Philosophy courses, particularly in physics and metaphysics, are recommended by some participants as beneficial for understanding space-time assumptions.
  • Concerns are raised about job prospects for theoretical physicists, with a suggestion that practical experience in applied science may be more accessible with a background in either major.
  • Some participants reflect on the importance of passion in choosing a field of study, particularly for pursuing a PhD.
  • There is a suggestion that job opportunities for cosmologists and high-energy physicists may not be significantly better than for theorists, leading to consideration of other fields like Theoretical or Applied Physics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on which major is more related to space-time subjects, and multiple competing views regarding career prospects and academic paths remain present throughout the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about job opportunities in cosmology and high-energy physics, and there are unresolved questions about the definitions and implications of "space-time subjects." The discussion reflects a range of perspectives on academic and career choices without definitive conclusions.

giang271291
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Hello everyone,

I like studying space-time related subjects and want to do something relating to those after graduated. My university offers 2 majors which I think both have sth to do with space-time: Cosmology and High Energy Particle Physics. Both seems equally interesting so I'm having difficulty choosing one. Can you give me some advices or your opinions ?

Thanks a lot.
 
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giang271291 said:
Hello everyone,

I like studying space-time related subjects and want to do something relating to those after graduated. My university offers 2 majors which I think both have sth to do with space-time: Cosmology and High Energy Particle Physics. Both seems equally interesting so I'm having difficulty choosing one. Can you give me some advices or your opinions ?

Thanks a lot.

It depends what you mean by space-time subjects... both will get into that stuff though. Isn't there just a standard physics major? I also highly suggest taking some philosophy, especially philosophy of physics, philosophy of quantum mechanics, or metaphysics. There may be some other particular course that would cover space-time too. Those subjects study the space-time (and other) assumptions made by physics.
 
kote said:
It depends what you mean by space-time subjects... both will get into that stuff though. Isn't there just a standard physics major? I also highly suggest taking some philosophy, especially philosophy of physics, philosophy of quantum mechanics, or metaphysics. There may be some other particular course that would cover space-time too. Those subjects study the space-time (and other) assumptions made by physics.

Well, maybe I was a little vague there. Yes, there is Theoretical Physics major, too. It's just...I think theoretical physicists may have a little difficulty finding job outside the academic field. Well, space-time is certainly a theory-stink subject, and perhaps CERN is the only non-academic faculty for it, but I still try not to be too restricted in my career path. I don't hope that I can get to NASA or CERN, but at least with background in Cosmology or HEP, I think I can find technical works in some small research or applied science centers easier (After all, at least after getting a PhD can I really study space-time. Before that I need some jobs, and I want to be a little flexible).

What do you think ?
 
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If you're looking for a job it's an entirely different question :smile:. I went for an engineering degree and management job...

I think the standard advice would be make sure you study something you're passionate about if going for a PhD. I'm not really an expert on job opportunities in labs. I know we occasionally hire condensed matter physicists and experimental types for our labs, but I don't know if there are any industry jobs for cosmology etc.
 
kote said:
If you're looking for a job it's an entirely different question :smile:. I went for an engineering degree and management job...

I think the standard advice would be make sure you study something you're passionate about if going for a PhD. I'm not really an expert on job opportunities in labs. I know we occasionally hire condensed matter physicists and experimental types for our labs, but I don't know if there are any industry jobs for cosmology etc.

Well that's true. Honestly, I don't think cosmologists or HEPists have much higher job oppotunities than theorists. Perhaps I will finally end up teaching, too. Maybe I should consider choosing Theoretical or Applied Phys instead.

Thanks for replying this boring topic, kote :biggrin:
 

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