Should I Switch to a Physics Major for My Love of Space Sciences?

In summary, the individual is a 19-year-old student from Alberta, Canada, currently in their first year of college for Environmental Sciences. However, they have always had a passion for physics and space sciences and are now considering transferring to the University of Lethbridge for their Physics program. They have been advised to take as much Calculus as possible before transferring and to consider staying at the University of Lethbridge for their undergraduate studies instead of moving to a bigger university. They also mentioned concerns about "weed out" courses in first year physics, but were reassured by graduates from the University of Lethbridge's program.
  • #1
NGC224
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So let me give you a little background on myself first. I'm 19, I live in Alberta, Canada, and I'm currently in my first year of college taking "Environmental Sciences". I chose that program basically because I met the requirements and it was the easiest route for me to take without upgrading. I'm your classic underachiever. I didn't try in high school and now I'm kicking myself for it.

I've had a love for physics and space sciences for most of my life. I knew I was in the wrong program when I was supposed to be studying for a Zoology test, but instead found myself in the library reading "The Feynman Lectures on Physics". I did quite well in physics in high school and I've always been quite good at math. So, I want to try to get into my local universities Physics program for next fall (University of Lethbridge).

Over the past hour or so I've been browsing some of the pinned articles and threads and here's the main points I've noticed through most of them. I just want to know if there's anything else I should know, so if you have any advice for me please do post it.

1. Take as much Calculus as humanly possible beforehand. My college has 4 Calculus courses. Pre-Calculus, Techniques of Calculus, Calculus I, and Calculus II. Techniques of Calculus transfers to the University, so I think that would probably be the best choice, but should I take more than 1 of them?

2. Don't go to a big fancy university for undergrad programs. Apparently they aren't as personalized and the classes are too big from what I've read. I was looking at going to McGill or U of T but is that really even worth moving across the country for?

3. First year physics usually has "weed out" courses, so I shouldn't fret if I don't walk out with all A's. I really hope this isn't the case, but I guess it's good to know.

That's all I can really think of for right now, so if there's any pointers you have for me post away!
 
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  • #2
I know a couple graduates from the U of L program and based on what they've related from their experiences it seems like that school has a great program - at least for undergrad. I wouldn't bother moving to go to another school for undergrad, unless you specifically want to go to a different city. (Although I couldn't imagine why. Lethbridge is an awesome town.)
 
  • #3
Choppy said:
I know a couple graduates from the U of L program and based on what they've related from their experiences it seems like that school has a great program - at least for undergrad. I wouldn't bother moving to go to another school for undergrad, unless you specifically want to go to a different city. (Although I couldn't imagine why. Lethbridge is an awesome town.)

Yes, other than the wind I enjoy Lethbridge. But I'm used to wind, since I'm from a small town just south of Lethbridge (Taber. Corn capital of Canada baby! *eye roll*) Tickets to WHL games as a student are only 11 bucks!

What did they say about the first year? Do they have those "weed out" courses?
 
  • #4
I don't recall going into details about first year. The two specific people I know were very well prepared for graduate school (granted this is a sample population of N=2 and arguably preparation is at least to some degree student specific), but they both spoke highly of the program.

In general, I think "weeding out" is a rather subjective term. First year physics, in Canada anyway, is pretty uniform in the topics covered, the types of problems handed out, and the difficulty of labs and tests.
 
  • #5
Choppy said:
I don't recall going into details about first year. The two specific people I know were very well prepared for graduate school (granted this is a sample population of N=2 and arguably preparation is at least to some degree student specific), but they both spoke highly of the program.

In general, I think "weeding out" is a rather subjective term. First year physics, in Canada anyway, is pretty uniform in the topics covered, the types of problems handed out, and the difficulty of labs and tests.

Ah, I see. Well that's good to know.
 

FAQ: Should I Switch to a Physics Major for My Love of Space Sciences?

What is the difference between classical and modern physics?

Classical physics deals with the laws of motion and mechanics, while modern physics deals with the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic levels. Classical physics is based on Newton's laws of motion, while modern physics incorporates theories such as relativity and quantum mechanics.

What is the role of mathematics in physics?

Mathematics is the language of physics, as it allows us to describe and quantify the natural world. Physics uses mathematical equations to model and predict the behavior of physical systems, making it an essential tool for understanding and advancing our knowledge of the universe.

What is the scientific method and how is it applied in physics?

The scientific method is a systematic approach to investigating and understanding the natural world. In physics, this involves making observations, forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, and analyzing data to draw conclusions about the behavior of physical systems. The process is iterative, as new evidence and discoveries can lead to revisions and improvements in our understanding.

How does physics relate to other branches of science?

Physics is considered the most fundamental of the natural sciences, as it is the foundation for other fields such as chemistry, biology, and astronomy. Many principles and laws discovered in physics apply to these other branches, and advancements in one field often lead to advancements in others.

What career opportunities are available for those with a degree in physics?

A degree in physics can open up a variety of career paths, including research and development in fields such as energy, aerospace, and technology. Graduates can also pursue careers in education, finance, and data analysis, as the skills and problem-solving abilities gained from studying physics are highly transferable.

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