mardi 9 décembre 2014

For a future in physics, should I pursue a dual major as opposed to just taking extra physics courses in mathematics degree?


I'm an undergrad studying mathematics right now. I have a very big interest in mathematical applications of physics, and I have been debating whether or not I should change my degree to a dual major (math/physics), because of this annoying little fear that only the math degree won't prepare me for a career in physics research later down the road, at the graduate level. However, the Mathematics is the degree I want (I believe there are more opportunities - I'd also enjoy going into a [bandwagon?] research field like Artificial Intelligence)..


Would a BS (and of course grad school) in Mathematics alone be enough to prepare me for a decent graduate school future, if I decided to pursue research in theoretical/mathematical physics? Or would it be better for me to tack on the dual major in physics? I would rather not stay in school an extra year and a half (it's already taking long enough after the A.S. in computer science!), but if it's necessary, I could do that.


I found another thread on ASE about this, with someone recommending that of course a mathematics major take physics courses - and I have.


My specific question is if it would behoove me to pursue a dual major as opposed to just taking extra physics courses (or a minor).


This is essentially the bare minimum I have to do for just the mathematics major.


These would be the physics courses I could tack on. The darker colors are required for the dual major, the lighter ones are electives.


The grad program I'm looking at, by the way, has a Master's program in Math that offers courses like Riemannian Geometry, Riemann surfaces, Group Theory, etc, which I think are useful in theoretical/mathematical physics at the graduate research level. Here's a picture


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Thanks!





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