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For a while I’ve wanted to study physics, but since doing alevels and uni open days I’ve started considering studying maths instead, mainly because maths comes more naturally to me + all the practical work in physics, now I’m not sure what to apply for because I am interested in astrophysics and read lots around the subject, but now I’m really thinking of studying maths. I also was thinking of studying maths in imperial but I’d need to do the TMAU in October, so doesn’t feel like enough time to study, really unsure on where to go from here in my studying decision, not sure if I should do a gap year maybe.

Reply 1

curious_wisdom

11

Original post

by RhianUni

For a while I’ve wanted to study physics, but since doing alevels and uni open days I’ve started considering studying maths instead, mainly because maths comes more naturally to me + all the practical work in physics, now I’m not sure what to apply for because I am interested in astrophysics and read lots around the subject, but now I’m really thinking of studying maths. I also was thinking of studying maths in imperial but I’d need to do the TMAU in October, so doesn’t feel like enough time to study, really unsure on where to go from here in my studying decision, not sure if I should do a gap year maybe.

Hii!
Keep in mind that there's a lot of maths in physics! I actually read something about admissions officers liking that a student applying for physics shows a passion for maths.
There's some unis that have more practical work and/or mathematics modules than other, so I'd look into that as well. Sometimes the unis that have better rankings are not the ones that will appeal the most or work better for you!
There's also sometimes courses that are called 'Physics and Mathematics' or stuff like that so maybe that's for you.
I hope that helped, good luck with whatever you decide!

Reply 2

McGinger

20

Start by checking Uni course pages for all of these subject degrees and joint subject degrees. Look at the course structure and in particular, the optional units for some of these degrees - what would you choose to do if you went there / did that.

And, look at a multi-discipline STEM degree program called 'Natural Sciences' - this will cover different subjects at each Uni that offers it but it does enable you to cover several different disciplines and the connections between them. Its a degree welcomed by employers/industry as you are able to see the wider picture and speak several different 'science languages', and it often comes with a placement or study abroad - something that will always give you an advantage over other graduates.

Reply 3

Muu9

14

Original post

by RhianUni

For a while I’ve wanted to study physics, but since doing alevels and uni open days I’ve started considering studying maths instead, mainly because maths comes more naturally to me + all the practical work in physics, now I’m not sure what to apply for because I am interested in astrophysics and read lots around the subject, but now I’m really thinking of studying maths. I also was thinking of studying maths in imperial but I’d need to do the TMAU in October, so doesn’t feel like enough time to study, really unsure on where to go from here in my studying decision, not sure if I should do a gap year maybe.

The theoretical physics degree at Imperial does not have many labs. You can also apply to maths at Warwick and use the flexibility to take physics-related options.

Reply 4

Muu9

14

Also note that the astrophysics part III at Cambridge is under the math part III, thus maths would be better preparation.

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