When is it to late to become a physics/math double major.

In summary, if you want to major in physics or mathematics, you will need to take additional math and/or physics courses in order to catch up. It might be worth it to take summer courses to do this.
  • #1
cj2222
14
0
I am going on to my fourth semester in the spring or 2011 at a community college and I have not taken any physics classes yet. I want to be a physics/math double major so if I change my mind on either one i can fall back on the other. Right now i guess i would consider myself a math major. The reason i havn't taken any physics classes is because i started in a low math class and the physics class required calculus II. I am now in calculus I and i will be in calculus II in the spring. The other physics class that was non-calculus based was full so i could'nt take that one either.

I plan to transfer to a four year school and take some physics classes to see how i like it but i feel like its going to take a long time to complete the degree since i will have not taken any physics classes for the first two years of college.

Does anyone have any advice or can anyone put it into perspective for me?

Is it too late for me to become a physics/mathematics major?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
It's too late when you have your degree. However, the amount of time it will take is an issue.
 
  • #3
cj2222 said:
I am going on to my fourth semester in the spring or 2011 at a community college and I have not taken any physics classes yet. I want to be a physics/math double major so if I change my mind on either one i can fall back on the other. Right now i guess i would consider myself a math major. The reason i havn't taken any physics classes is because i started in a low math class and the physics class required calculus II. I am now in calculus I and i will be in calculus II in the spring. The other physics class that was non-calculus based was full so i could'nt take that one either.

I plan to transfer to a four year school and take some physics classes to see how i like it but i feel like its going to take a long time to complete the degree since i will have not taken any physics classes for the first two years of college.

Does anyone have any advice or can anyone put it into perspective for me?

Is it too late for me to become a physics/mathematics major?

Well its clearly not too late, unless you are running out of money or time.

I'd say just try and take as much math/physics as possible to see if you really want to go through with it. Since you have never taken a physics course I might mention that it will most likely be quite different than a math course. If absolutely necessary...take summer courses to catch up. I took calc 1 and 2 in the summer, and although it sucked and I wouldn't recommend it unless necessary, I was glad I did it because now I am "ahead" in math compared to physics, so it can make the physics less difficult.
 

FAQ: When is it to late to become a physics/math double major.

When is it too late to become a physics/math double major?

It is never too late to become a physics/math double major. While it may be more challenging to switch majors later in your academic career, it is certainly possible with dedication and hard work. Many students switch majors, add a second major, or even pursue a completely different field after graduating. It's important to do what you are passionate about, even if it means changing your academic path.

Will I have to take extra classes to catch up if I switch to a physics/math double major later?

It is possible that you may need to take extra classes to catch up, depending on how far along you are in your current major. However, many universities have programs in place to help students switch majors without falling behind. Additionally, some of the classes you have already taken may count towards your new major, allowing you to graduate on time.

Can I still graduate in four years if I switch to a physics/math double major later?

It is possible to graduate in four years, but it may require careful planning and possibly taking summer classes. If you are willing to put in the extra effort and work closely with your academic advisor, it is definitely achievable. Keep in mind that the benefits of pursuing a double major may outweigh the extra time and effort it takes to graduate.

Will switching to a physics/math double major hurt my GPA?

Switching to a double major may require you to take more challenging courses, which could potentially lower your GPA. However, if you are truly passionate about the subject and willing to put in the effort, your GPA may actually improve. Additionally, having a double major can make you a well-rounded and more competitive candidate for graduate programs or job opportunities.

Is it better to start as a physics/math double major or add it later?

There is no right answer to this question, as it ultimately depends on your individual circumstances. Starting as a double major may allow you to have a more balanced workload and may make it easier to graduate in four years. However, adding a double major later may allow you to explore your interests and passions first before committing to a specific academic path. Whichever option you choose, it is important to carefully consider your goals and priorities before making a decision.

Similar threads

Programs Is it too late for me to get into Physics?
Replies
8
Views
2K
Programs Should I do a math or an astronomy double major for general relativity?
Replies
2
Views
1K
Programs Should I major in Physics & Astronomy or Physics & Math?
Replies
10
Views
3K
Other Physics PhD after working for few years
Replies
12
Views
1K
Any tips for doing a PhD in theoretical physics?
Replies
21
Views
558
Courses Should I withdraw from a class?
2
Replies
40
Views
3K
Courses Pure physics vs. adding a math major?
Replies
8
Views
2K
Courses Which math course should I take (as a physics major)?
Replies
6
Views
2K
Programs Advice for majoring in theoretical physics
Replies
13
Views
2K
Programs Should I continue on with a physics major?
Replies
6
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top