Chemistry vs Physics

I potentially have an opportunity to transfer from my Foundation Year Chemistry (UEA) to 1st Year Physics (UEA). Part of my idea to do a fundamental science like Chemistry or Physics was that I could have a wider amount of post graduate courses; I am interested in Climatology and Atmospheric Science, but I didn't feel my interest was strong enough to commit to Env Sci or GeoPhysics, so I started Chemistry knowing that if nothing else came to me that I could do MSc Env Sci (UEA) afterwards.

I would like some advice as to what fields I could move into with either to evaluate if it is worthwhile to move. I am mostly interested in Science and Technology; I know that Physics could lead me to Finance, but I would not move over for that (although I appreciate that it is an option)

What potential careers (any and all) lie ahead? Both can lead me to research, I know Chemistry could lead me to Pharmaceuticals

What further study (any and all) could either lead me to? (and by extension, what jobs). I know a few MSc Electronic Engineering courses accept Physics graduates like Durham and Surrey

Reply 1

sppm726

I’d suggest printing out the module information for both courses, and highlighting what stands out to you. STEM have a LOT of overlaps (eg I do combined honours maths and physics and there’s a lot of overlap with vibrations, oscillations, imaginary numbers, series etc). Find the sub-genres you’re most interested in with science (like the atmospheric science), and figure out what would cover them more.

We do coding in physics (if that interests you), and it’s quite maths heavy. All my assessments so far have been maths related, and we even have lectures solely on teaching us the maths for the physics. If you struggle with maths, chemistry is probably an easier option for you.

Physics — nuclear, quantum, coding/computer science, thermodynamics, finance n maths related pathways, engineering, mechanics, astronomy, astrophysics, oscillations and waves, aerospace engineering, creating new ways to be environmentally friendly

I have no idea about chemistry, I dropped it for A level, but if you like it, then good for you. I do not envy you.

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