Programs Which major is more related to space-time subjects ?

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The discussion revolves around the choice between two majors—Cosmology and High Energy Particle Physics—both related to space-time studies. Participants emphasize the importance of aligning the choice with personal passion, especially for pursuing a PhD. There is a recognition that job opportunities in these fields may be limited, particularly outside academia, with suggestions to consider a broader physics major or even a Theoretical Physics major. The conversation also highlights the potential for technical roles in smaller research or applied science centers. Additionally, the value of studying philosophy, particularly the philosophy of physics, is noted for its relevance to understanding the foundational concepts of space-time. Overall, the emphasis is on balancing personal interests with practical career considerations.
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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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