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I realize that it is of bad form to cross-post. However, on this matter I very much hope to hear arguments from all sides...

I hope to become a physicist focusing mainly on the theoretical side in the future. I am trying to decide whether to go for a physics or math undergrad course.

Assuming that I am capable of doing either, what are the pros and cons of either route?

I know that mathematics is essential to doing physics, and in most math courses, there are applied math modules that are very much related to physics. Also that many research physicists have math degrees. But surely there are reasons for people to choose the physics course over the math course and vice versa? In particular, what are the possible advantages of a physics degree over a math one, given that a math degree could lead to PhD in physics and possibly open more possibilities in say the financial world (though that is not my interest)?

Thank you.

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    if you have cross-posted, also add the link to the original post.2012-09-19
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    @rrampage: Sure, I have added the link.2012-09-19
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    A very reasonable choice as an undergrad is to do both.2012-09-19
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    Thank you, @oen . Indeed that would be best, but the institution I have a place at does not really do both... The physics course comes with supplementary math, but definitely much less rigorous than the math course. whereas the math course is very rigorous but offers a very narrow range of physics topics...2012-09-19
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    Perhaps you should assume some axiom which will help you to choose from the set of possible degrees...2012-09-19
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    Where are you doing this? In most US universities, even if you major in physics, you can choose to take the mathematics courses intended for math majors in place of the (less rigorous) math for physics majors. Then you will have your physics degree, but also the greater facility in math. (But, perhaps in some other countries physics majors may take only the physics course and not substitute the courses intended for math majors... Then your choice is more crucial.)2012-09-19
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    Thank you for your comment, @GEdgar . I am doing it in the UK, in particular I have been offered a place at the Univ of Cambridge. They have an option to do Maths with Physics for the 1st year, then one has to choose whether to do Maths or what I call the "Physics-combo" in Natural Sciences where you take the Physics modules and a Maths module. But of course the Maths there is less rigorous than in the Maths course! But is such level of rigor really necessary? Also, I wonder how beneficial experimental experiences are...2012-09-19
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    @GEdgar : cont'... Also, I worry that perhaps theoretical physics will require certain areas of abstract maths, such as geometry that might not be covered as well in the Maths module in the Physics-combo... Though of course I can read around myself...2012-09-19
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    Ask professors at Cambridge what they think. They will know better. Especially, ask a theoretical physicist.2012-11-28

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