Physics Degree WKU vs UK

College Majors Science Majors
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<p>I have narrowed my choices down to 2 schools to continue my path to a B.S. in Physics. The choices are Western Kentucky University or University of Kentucky. Seems like UK math requirements are Calculus I-IV then Matrix Algebra, WKU makes you take Calculus I & II, but then breaks their math classes up into courses like Linear Algebra, Multi-variable Algebra, etc. I like both schools, but the three year plans are tight and when I go into the WKU class schedule seems they are lacking in the number of sections that they offer, and time conflicts are an issue, where UK seems to offer more sections in things like University Physics and some of the math classes. I am wanting to continue on after my B.S. in Physics to eventually attain a masters then a PhD in Astrophysics. UK seems to have more research money but the only professor doing any Astrophysics related research is on the subject of Black Holes, but would have to compete with grad students for research slots. WKU has more astronomy contacts with Kitt Peak Observatory, and they have more undergrad opportunities with little to no graduates attending but not as much research money.</p>

<p>Just looking for anything I may have overlooked. Would there be an advantage to going to UK with the it being well-known, or would the WKU setup be more advantageous.</p>

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<p>It may be useful to find statistics on where their physics majors went after college. Regardless of prestige and other factors every school is unique in its students that go onto professional programs.</p>

<p>Regardless, go to the school where you can see yourself better, can earn good grades for grad school and be able to find notable research opportunities so you can round out your resume.</p>

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<p>I agree with Ctesiphon. You want to go to a school that you will get good grades at, and where research opportunities are plentiful. There are more research ops at UK for sure, but at WKU you might be the “big fish in a small pond” and really find a chance to stand out to grad schools. Visit and see where is best for your future, keeping in mind your end goal (a PhD).</p>

<p>I would also try this question on the Physics Forums website. They seem to have Physicists from every university in the country, and can probably help you a lot more than CC can.</p>