BS Physics vs BS Applied Physics | What's the difference? | with english subtitles

boyfriendnibluefairy
8 Dec 202014:29
EducationalLearning
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TLDRThe video transcript compares Bachelor of Science (BS) in Physics and Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics (AFI) degree programs, highlighting their core subjects, practical applications, and potential career paths. It emphasizes the mathematical and technical skills required for both, with AFI focusing more on programming, electronics, and product development. The transcript suggests that AFI graduates are better suited for industry roles involving innovation and technology, while BS Physics graduates may pursue academia, research, and roles requiring deep physics knowledge.

Takeaways
  • 🎓 The primary difference between a BS in Physics and a BS in Applied Physics lies in the practical application and career focus of the graduates.
  • 📚 Both degree programs share foundational courses in algebra, calculus, and core physics subjects, ensuring a solid understanding of physics principles.
  • 🔬 Specialized subjects like quantum mechanics, relativity, and particle physics are mandatory for Physics degree students but optional for Applied Physics students.
  • 🛠️ Applied Physics graduates are expected to have knowledge in analog and digital electronics, computational physics, and computer-aided design (CAD) tools, which are valuable in software and hardware engineering industries.
  • 💡 The edge of Applied Physics graduates is their deeper understanding of physics, which is crucial in research and development, giving them an advantage over other technical graduates.
  • 📈 Physics degree students often pursue careers in academia, government research facilities, and financial institutions, where their knowledge of physics is directly applied to solve complex problems.
  • 🚀 Applied Physics graduates may work in private companies, tech startups, or R&D units, focusing on creating, designing, or implementing products that can generate profit.
  • 🎓 A Physics undergraduate thesis should contribute new knowledge, whereas an Applied Physics thesis must produce a working product, which can be tangible or intangible.
  • 🌟 Physics graduates aiming for high income opportunities are more likely to find them in private companies, while those interested in innovation and technology might opt for Applied Physics.
  • 🏆 For those passionate about physics and interested in pursuing a PhD or winning a Nobel Prize, a BS in Physics is the recommended choice.
Q & A

  • What are the prerequisites for both physics and applied physics degree programs?

    -The prerequisites for both programs include algebra and calculus, which are essential mathematical methods for solving physics problems efficiently.

  • What core physics subjects must be covered in a Bachelor of Science in Physics program?

    -Core physics subjects include mechanics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and acoustics, electromagnetism, optics, and modern physics, encompassing both classical and modern physics topics.

  • How do quantum mechanics and relativity differ in terms of their importance in the physics and applied physics degree programs?

    -In the physics degree program, quantum mechanics and relativity are required subjects, forming the basis for advanced technologies and setting operating limitations for physical devices. In contrast, in the applied physics program, they are considered 'nice to know' and are optional.

  • What are some key differences in the subjects studied by physics and applied physics graduates?

    -Applied physics graduates must have knowledge in analog and digital electronics, computational physics, and computer-aided design (CAD) tools, which are not required in the physics degree program but may be optional depending on the student's research interests.

  • How does the focus on programming and simulation tools differ between the two degree programs?

    -Applied physics graduates are expected to have a deeper understanding of programming and simulation tools, which are vital in software and hardware engineering, and product development. Physics graduates may learn these skills as part of their studies but are not required to specialize in them.

  • What is the primary goal of an undergraduate thesis in a physics degree program?

    -The primary goal of a physics undergraduate thesis is to produce new knowledge, contributing to the field by either proving or disproving theories, or by proposing new concepts.

  • What type of work output is typically expected from an applied physics graduate?

    -Applied physics graduates are often expected to create a product as their work output, which can range from physical devices and instruments to software, processes, or algorithms.

  • What career paths are more lucrative for physics and applied physics graduates?

    -Private companies, such as tech and IT firms, often offer the most lucrative career paths for physics and applied physics graduates, especially for those who are focused on creating and developing products.

  • What are some advantages of choosing a Bachelor of Science in Physics degree over an applied physics degree?

    -Choosing a Bachelor of Science in Physics may lead to a greater chance of landing a job in academia, government research facilities, or financial institutions, and is more suitable for those interested in pursuing a PhD or Nobel Prize in Physics.

  • What are the potential long-term benefits of having a PhD in Physics?

    -A PhD in Physics can lead to a tenured position at a university, providing financial security and the opportunity to be prolific in publishing scientific research, which is essential for career advancement in academia.

  • What personal traits and goals would make a person more suited to an applied physics degree?

    -Individuals who crave innovation, enjoy programming, have an interest in inventing or developing technology, and prioritize earning money while still enjoying physics, are more suited to an applied physics degree.

Outlines
00:00
🎓 Understanding the Differences Between BS Physics and BS Applied Physics

This paragraph discusses the general differences between Bachelor of Science (BS) in Physics and BS in Applied Physics degree programs. It emphasizes that the comparison is not exhaustive and avoids technicalities since they vary by university. The focus is on the core subjects and prerequisites shared by both programs, such as algebra, calculus, and mathematical physics, which are essential for solving physics problems and conducting scientific research. The paragraph also highlights the distinct aspects of each program, particularly the core physics subjects that are mandatory for physics students but optional for applied physics students, reflecting the different career paths and applications of the two degrees.

05:00
💼 Career Outlook and Applied Physics Curriculum

The second paragraph delves into the target workplaces and career options for graduates of physics and applied physics degrees. It outlines how industry demands shape the applied physics subjects offered in universities. Applied physics graduates are expected to have knowledge in analog and digital electronics, computational physics, and computer-aided design (CAD) tools, which are valuable in software and hardware engineering. The paragraph contrasts the optional nature of programming and simulation tools in the physics degree program with their importance in applied physics. It also discusses the expectations for undergraduate theses in both programs, emphasizing the need for novel contributions to knowledge for physics students and the application of research to produce working products for applied physics students. The speaker shares personal experiences to offer insights into the variety of jobs available to graduates and the factors influencing the choice between the two degrees.

10:01
🏢 Job Prospects and the Value of Physics Education

In the final paragraph, the focus shifts to the job prospects and professional value of a physics education. It contrasts the lucrative opportunities in private companies for applied physics graduates with the potential for academic, government, and financial institution roles for physics graduates. The paragraph clarifies that while applied physics graduates may work on creating products that apply physics concepts, physics graduates are more likely to focus on the application of physics itself. The speaker advises choosing applied physics for those interested in innovation, programming, technology development, and entrepreneurship, while recommending physics for those excelling in mathematics and passionate about exploring physics. The paragraph concludes with a reminder that financial security does not solely depend on a high salary but also on one's passion and dedication to their field, especially for those aspiring to contribute significantly to physics through research and publications.

Mindmap
Keywords
💡B.S. in Physics
Bachelor of Science in Physics is an undergraduate degree program that focuses on the fundamental principles and theories of physics. It is designed for students who want to gain deep knowledge of physics and its mathematical foundations. In the video, this program is contrasted with B.S. in Applied Physics, highlighting its emphasis on core physics subjects, theoretical understanding, and the expectation that students contribute new knowledge through their theses.
💡B.S. in Applied Physics
Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics is an undergraduate degree program that combines the study of physics with practical applications, preparing students for careers that involve the development and design of technology. This program is more focused on the application of physics principles to real-world problems and is considered more marketable due to its emphasis on skills like programming and electronics.
💡Undergraduate Course Subjects
Undergraduate Course Subjects refer to the specific classes that students are required to take as part of their degree program. In the context of the video, these subjects differ between B.S. in Physics and B.S. in Applied Physics, with the latter including more practical and applied topics like electronics and programming.
💡Thesis or Special Problem
The Thesis or Special Problem is a research project or paper that students must complete as part of their undergraduate degree requirements. It is a demonstration of the student's ability to conduct original research and contribute new knowledge to their field of study.
💡Quantum Mechanics
Quantum Mechanics is a fundamental theory in physics that describes the behavior of matter and energy at very small scales, such as atomic and subatomic particles. It is a core subject in B.S. in Physics and an optional subject in B.S. in Applied Physics, reflecting its importance in the development of advanced technologies and the understanding of the universe.
💡Relativity
Relativity is a theory in physics, developed by Albert Einstein, that describes the behavior of objects in relation to their motion and the effects of gravity on space and time. It is a required subject in B.S. in Physics and an optional subject in B.S. in Applied Physics, indicating its foundational role in understanding the universe at large scales.
💡Career Options
Career Options refer to the various job opportunities and professional paths available to graduates of a particular degree program. In the video, the speaker discusses how the type of degree program—B.S. in Physics or B.S. in Applied Physics—affects the career paths and job opportunities available to graduates.
💡Product Development
Product Development refers to the process of creating new products or improving existing ones. In the context of B.S. in Applied Physics, it is a key aspect of many career paths, as graduates are expected to apply their knowledge of physics to design, engineer, and create tangible products or software.
💡Simulation Tools
Simulation Tools are software programs used to model and analyze the behavior of systems or processes without the need for physical prototypes. In the video, these tools are highlighted as essential skills for B.S. in Applied Physics graduates, who are expected to use them in the design and testing of electronics and physical devices.
💡Programming and Electronics
Programming and Electronics are practical skills that involve writing code for computers and working with electronic systems. These skills are emphasized in the B.S. in Applied Physics program, as they are valuable in industries such as software and hardware engineering.
💡Academia and Research
Academia and Research refer to the field of educational and scholarly activities, including teaching and conducting scientific studies. The video discusses how B.S. in Physics graduates are more likely to pursue careers in academia, where they can contribute to the advancement of knowledge through research and teaching.
💡Innovation and Technology
Innovation and Technology refer to the process of creating new ideas, methods, or devices, and the application of scientific knowledge to develop advanced tools and systems. The video suggests that B.S. in Applied Physics graduates are well-suited for careers that involve innovation and the use of modern technology.
Highlights

The general differences between Bachelor of Science in Physics and Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics degree programs are discussed.

Both degree programs share prerequisites of algebra and calculus, often discussed during senior high school or early undergrad years.

Mathematical physics is a core subject in both programs, equipping students with methods to efficiently solve physics problems and conduct scientific research.

Core physics subjects in both programs include calculus-based general physics covering classical and modern physics topics.

Quantum mechanics, relativity, and particle physics are required subjects in the Physics degree program, forming the basis for advanced technologies.

In the Applied Physics program, subjects like quantum mechanics and relativity are considered 'nice to know' and are optional.

Applied Physics students must have knowledge in analog and digital electronics, computational physics, and computer-aided design (CAD) tools.

The edge of Applied Physics graduates over other disciplines is their deeper understanding of physics, vital in research and development.

Physics degree program students may focus on subjects like programming and simulation tools based on their research prospects.

An undergraduate thesis in Physics is compulsory and should produce new knowledge, often contributing to a university's annual publications.

For Applied Physics, the research or thesis must produce a working product, which could be a software, process, algorithm, or physical device.

The choice between Physics and Applied Physics degree programs can be influenced by career goals and the type of work one wishes to engage in post-graduation.

The most lucrative jobs are typically in private companies for Applied Physics graduates, where the focus is on creating and selling products.

Physics graduates often find jobs in academia, government research facilities, banks, financial institutions, and private company analysis units.

Applied Physics graduates have a broader range of job opportunities where physics application is a bonus but not the primary focus.

For those interested in innovation, programming, technology, and entrepreneurship, Applied Physics is the recommended choice.

If one excels in mathematics and aims for deeper exploration in physics or a PhD, the Physics degree program is the clear choice.

A PhD in Physics can lead to a tenured university position, offering financial security, especially for those with a strong publication record.

Transcripts

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