Double Major and Major/Minor Information
This page is about double majoring or major/minoring in physics and another discipline. For more information about the requirements for completing the physics major and minor, see How to major/minor in physics.
Why double major?
Broadly speaking, since the physics major itself is already pretty heavy on classes (compared to most majors), choosing to double major will likely result in spending most of your time completing requirement classes for both majors and not much time for electives in each. However, one would certainly gain requisite knowledge in both fields for specialization later on, if one wishes to do so (perhaps in grad school). The choice is ultimately up to you, your interests and your post-grad plans.
In this page, we will explore some of the more common choices of double major with physics.
Astrophysics
Computer Science
Lower Division:
CS61A CS61B CS61C CS 70
EE16A EE16B
Math1A Math1B
To declare the CS major, one needs at least a 3.30 GPA average in CS61A, CS61B, and CS70.
Upper Division:
Mathematics
Berkeley offers both the Applied Math and Pure Math majors. Within Applied Math, there is a great deal of flexibility in potential electives, in the form of 'clusters'. Pure Math is basically a cluster of applied math, i.e. a different set of potential electives. In fact, it is possible to take the exact same minimal amount of courses as both a Pure or Applied Math major. To be honest it is not clear why it is a separate major and not just a cluster within Applied Math. Therefore, perhaps it is best to just take what Math classes you find interesting and see what cluster/ major you end up becoming (along with some planning, of course).
Lower Division:
Most of the overlap with physics comes from the lower division requirements. Both majors require Math 1A, Math 1B, and Math 53. A 5 on AP Calculus BC can wave Math 1A and Math 1B. Math majors are allowed to replace Physics 89 with Math 54, but minors are not. Math majors must also take Math 55.
Upper Division:
If you are considering taking Math courses, it is perhaps best to time your semesters (if possible) to take certain courses before others. This is NOT AT ALL needed, but in an ideal world it may be preferable to take:
Math 110 before/with Physics 137A
!!!!!!!!!!!!! Finish later
Math 113: Abstract Algebra
Math 104: Real Analysis
Math 185: Complex Analysis
Semi-Electives:
Pick 1 class from 2 of the following 3 categories: