<p>Trying to decide between UVA and W&M and am interested in physics/math. How are these programs at UVA and does anyone have any comparisons with W&M? Thanks.</p>
<p>I think it depends in part whether or not you intend to go to graduate school. In terms of graduate school preparation I think that UVa takes the cake. I’m not trying to be biased, but as a research university UVa is able to prepare their students for graduate school much better than W&M can. I know that the physics department is strong and receptive to undergraduate research. The math department here is also strong. It’s helpful that both programs also have graduate classes that you can enroll in while an undergraduate.</p>
<p>Also, UVa has a number of 5 year joint bachelors/masters programs, which I believe are intended to increase in number. That saves a whole year of tuition and lost income. You’d have to check to see if they are or will be available for your subjects.</p>
<p>Thanks I am leaning toward UVA and appreciate the input.</p>
<p>It is important to note that if you put the work in then UVa can place you in good graduate programs. I personally know a friend from my area who just graduated from UVa with a double major in physics and math who is now studying particle physics at MIT. It is what you make of it though so if you truly fall in love with W&M and hate UVa then I wouldn’t necessarily suggest that you attend UVa simply for its placement.</p>