<p>I'm really interested in studying plasma physics during my Master's/Ph.D. program, but I'm trying to solidify my undergraduate plans a little bit more. At my school (University of Oklahoma), the astrophysics and physics majors have quite a bit of overlap. The main difference is that astrophysics requires 4 astronomy classes and a course in statistical physics and thermodynamics while physics requires chemistry and several physics electives. I came in with enough advanced credits that I really don't need to worry about genEd courses, so I have enough time to do an astrophysics major with elective physics credits or a physics major with elective astrophysics credits. My question, however, is would there be an advantage for me to have astrophysics vs physics or vice versa on my final diploma if I'm interested in plasma physics later on or is it immaterial? Also, if anyone has any insight into which courses would best prepare me for studying plasma, that would greatly appreciated too!</p>
<p>It probably doesn’t matter as long as your degree has two semesters of quantum mechanics and E&M. Sometimes astrophysics degrees don’t have these. We have sent several students to a plasma physics program from Illinois Tech with physics degrees so that is a good choice for sure.</p>
<p>Basically, if you take the same core courses, then it probably does not matter.</p>