High School to Graduate: Balancing CS and Physics or Returning to College Later
Many students find themselves in a unique position when they can't pursue all of their academic interests simultaneously due to academic prerequisites or financial constraints. Balancing between computer science (CS) and physics can be particularly challenging, as each field has its own complexities and prerequisites. This article explores the feasibility of pursuing both subjects, whether it's by starting college now, returning later, or picking one over the other.
Feasibility of Double Majoring
Is it feasible to double major in computer science and physics? The short answer is yes, but it's crucial to consider the difficulty levels of each subject and the time required to master them. Physics often demands a strong foundation in mathematics, which can be more challenging than the mathematics typically required for computer science. Therefore, it might be more strategic to prioritize physics and refocus on CS later if you have the opportunity.
Choosing Your College Path
If you are already financing your education or planning to take out student loans, physics might be a more pressing choice. The earlier you complete your physics degree, the sooner you'll have access to the numerous resources and communities available for continuing CS studies in the real world. On the other hand, if you're seeking a steady income, computer science might be a safer bet as it provides a more direct path to employment.
Employer-Sponsored Advanced Degrees
Consider your relationship with your employer. If they are willing to sponsor your advanced education, taking up physics for an MS might be a viable and beneficial option. This can help you understand the applicability of your physics knowledge to your current job, enhancing both your employability and career growth.
Maximizing Your Long-Term Career Options
Academic debt can significantly impact your long-term career and life choices. It's crucial to manage your debt minimally and strategically. If you're good at math and can code, finding a job in either field shouldn't be too difficult. However, if you're not paying for your undergrad, you should double down on your chosen field, especially physics. If you're truly passionate and have the ability, pursuing a PhD in physics can open many doors in the data science and research fields.
Continuing Education and Community Resources
Despite the challenges, there are numerous online resources and communities dedicated to furthering your CS education after college. Additionally, many professionals continue to study physics on their own, but the academic environment for physics remains largely confined to higher education institutions. Balancing your interests by focusing on one field now and diving deeper into the other once you are in the workforce can help maximize your long-term career options.
Past Success Stories
There are encouraging success stories of students who initially pursued one field, then transitioned to another later. For example, two undergraduate students who first became electrical engineers and worked in the industry for a couple of years decided to become physicists. They enrolled in a continuing education program at UC Berkeley Extension and caught up on the required physics courses, which was not an easy task for them. These students, now brilliant researchers, are now grad students at Harvard and MIT.
Conclusion
While the path to balancing CS and physics can be complex, it's not impossible. Make an informed decision based on your current financial and academic standing, and be open to the idea of returning to college later to pursue your other interests. With strategic planning and strong focus, you can create a fulfilling and successful career in either field.