<p>Hi everyone, I’ve been lurking around on CC for quite a few months new, for the reason that so many of my questions have been answered already :)</p>
<p>One thing I still need to ask, how good is the Amherst science, specifically physics programs and facilities? I know that Amherst seems to have a less emphasis on science compared to colleges like Williams, but how significance is the difference? Will I be at a disadvantage if I apply to top physics grad schools with a physics BA from Amherst as opposed to other schools more famous for science? The reason I’m asking this is that Amherst is the only US college I’ve been accepted to, so there’s not much choice for me My only other alternative is McGill.</p>
<p>The physics department at Amherst is top-notch and consistently sends students to top grad-schools for physics. A lot of students claim it is the strongest science department at Amherst. The professors are all fantastic, and the quality of education could very well be better than at a larger school because you will have a much more personal relationship with the faculty.</p>
<p>I don’t now if you can say that Amherst “emphasizes” science less than other schools. There are certainly a higher percentage of science majors at a school like Williams, but a BA in any science from Amherst will be in no way a disadvantage for anything.</p>
<p>The physics facilities are fairly old, but they certainly get the job done. If you are looking to go to grad school for physics, Amherst is a fantastic place for you.</p>
<p>Wow, that’s reassuring. Thanks for the reply.</p>
<p>By the way, are you a student at Amherst? Do you know how common it is to take more than 4 courses a semester? I’m worried that I might need that kind of schedule, since I want to do take astronomy courses as well as a lot of music courses.</p>
<p>Hmm, what I meant was to take a full fifth music class (theory, not practical instruction, which only counts for half a credit). I read in the college catalog that you have to ask for special permission. Does anyone actually do that?</p>
<p>Plenty of students will take a fifth course at least once during their time at Amherst. It’s generally rather easy to get approved, so long as you’re not trying to add, say, a very time intensive lab science course.</p>
<p>Yeah, that was my first choice. Great science and music. Too bad they rejected me But I think the financial aid would not have been as good, compared to Amherst.</p>
My only other alternative is McGill.</p>
But I think the financial aid would not have been as good, compared to Amherst.</p>