powerhawk

I'm interested in the CGA as a possible alternative to USNA, however the majors seem somewhat unconventional.

Would any of the majors offered be suited to a student interested in physics?

zachogden

Unconventional? The CGA's 8 majors apply directly to things the Coast Guard actually does in the fleet. If you're interested in physics, go with an engineering major. Mechanical, electrical, civil, and naval all lean very heavily on applied physics.

flagball111

I am a university physics professor and my son is an incoming swab, 2012 class. We had the same question about majoring in physics. At one point, this was the only major that my son would consider for college. He now wants to study Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering at the CGA. I feel that Electrical Engineering at the CGA might be the closest to physics in content, while the Operations Research and Computer Analysis (Applied Mathematics) major might be well suited to someone interested in going on to graduate school in physics some day. I have seen many math majors who do well in physics graduate school. I have also known undergraduate engineering majors who have completed Ph.D.'s in physics as well. There is a significant overlap. I always recommend that someone choose a major that is fun and inspiring for them. I hope that this is helpful.

flagball111

I am a university physics professor and my son is an incoming swab, 2012 class. We had the same question about majoring in physics. At one point, this was the only major that my son would consider for college. He now wants to study Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering at the CGA. I feel that Electrical Engineering at the CGA might be the closest to physics in content, while the Operations Research and Computer Analysis (Applied Mathematics) major might be best suited to someone interested in going on to graduate school in physics some day. I have seen many math majors who do well in physics graduate school and I have known undergraduate engineering majors who have completed Ph.D.'s in physics as well. There is a significant overlap. I hope that this is helpful.

powerhawk

Thanks. I guess the reason I want to major in physics in undergrad school is that it provides so many opportunities for grad school. I could continue in physics, or go to engineering, business, or even med school!

I haven't been able to pinpoint my interests to any subfield in engineering or physics.