<p>Hello everyone. I know that it is rare for students to attempt a triple major, but I am seriously considering doing so with physics, mathematics, and computer science.</p>
<p>I am certain that, AT THE VERY LEAST, I want to do a double major in physics and mathematics. I am willing to apply every bit of effort into my studies. I don't have any question as to whether or not I can handle the work.</p>
<p>Lastly, I want to say that I'd eventually like to earn a PhD in physics and possibly a masters in either computer science or mathematics as well. Noting these goals, would the triple major be a mistake? If the triple major isn't a good idea, what can I do to obtain a PhD in physics while also earning degrees in mathematics and computer science?</p>
<p>I have basically the same goals. I’ve been considering triple majoring in physics, math and CS after I transfer out of my CC…but the more I look at exactly how much would be required with that kind of workload…the more I question it. As of now, I’m really considering double majoring in physics(with an astrophysics concentration) and mathematics…with a minor in computer science, and a possible second minor in philosophy. The math and physics curricula typically have many of the same math courses, which slightly lessens the load that is required. Plus you’ll already be taking care of the lower level math and physics requirements that the CS degree would require. There are a lot of courses that will work towards all of the majors. </p>
<p>The more thought I’ve put into it though…I don’t really care if I have a degree in CS. I’m going to go to grad school for physics. I want to minor in CS just so I have some programming experience, but I don’t ever really envision myself doing anything solely within CS. Physics and mathematics are more my speed.</p>
<p>At many schools, a double major in physics/math or math/CS is not that difficult to schedule. Physics/CS may be a little more difficult to schedule. The combinations with CS may be more difficult if CS is in a different division (e.g. the engineering division) from physics or math.</p>
<p>But a triple major would likely require a lot of advanced credit and/or overloading one’s schedule to fit it all into eight semesters.</p>
<p>Taking at least the introductory sequence of CS courses would be a good supporting subject for a physics or math major, both for usefulness in physics and math work and to facilitate backup career options in CS.</p>
<p>Check and see if there’s a combined mathematics and computer science major. Many schools have one. My target transfer school is UIUC, and that’s one of the options they offer. It requires courses from both disciplines, but its less comprehensive in the each individual area. Its a good option to consider if its available though, especially if your plans are grad school for physics. It would free time up for the more advanced physics courses, while still giving you a degree in both math and CS.</p>
<p>Thank you both for your responses. I’m beginning to reconsider pursuing a triple major. Now that I’ve thought about it, I don’t think I really want the CS degree so much, but I’d definitely love to have an understanding of most CS topics to complement my physics and math degrees. So yes, I think a few introductory level CS courses would suffice, rather than attempting to major in it.</p>
<p>I know you don’t want to hear it, but you are wasting your time. Nobody cares about several bachelor’s degrees. Master one field and don’t be a jack of all trades. If you want to study physics, then study physics and minor in math if you want. You’ll get plenty of math though as you progress through physics. The department will teach you what you need to know. Computer programming, however, is extremely useful and can’t be learned as much through just a straight physics or math degree. I’d consider minoring in that instead.</p>
<p>You can major in both Math and CS (or take enough CS courses to qualify for jobs) within the same 120 semester credits. You don’t need separate degrees…plus the employer won’t pay you for the extra degree.</p>
<p>The mixture of CS, Math & Physics seems to imply “Quantum Computing”. One path could be to pick Math or Physics as your primary degree while filling up your electives with either Math or Physics (the one that you did no chose as the primary major) and CS courses.</p>
<p>Then…</p>
<p>Go for a masters in something more interdisciplinary like Engineering Physics or a M.Eng without a major and tailor your Physics/Math/CS interests there.</p>
<p>You’re wasting so much time taking extra courses. It’s just plain inefficient to what your end-goal seems to be (I hope you have some sort of end-goal planned out).</p>
<p>Just get one degree or two, and learn the rest as you’re completing PhD.</p>
<p>My advice would be to major in physics and minor in math and take a few programming classes. For graduate school admissions, it is better to focus on one area than spread yourself too thin. You are also going to have to become involved in research if you want to be competitive.</p>