Should I study CS or physics?

Choosing between Computer Science (CS) and Physics depends on your interests: CS offers more direct paths to tech jobs like software/data roles (logic/applied focus), while Physics provides deep understanding of the universe (analytical/math focus) with strong overlap into CS (AI, robotics, quantum) through computation, with many physics grads succeeding in CS; a major in one with a minor or self-study in the other is a great hybrid, but CS might offer quicker career entry, while Physics builds superior analytical skills.

Which is better, physics or computer science?

Physics and computer science complement each other well, with physics providing an analytical problem-solving perspective and a fundamental understanding of nature, while computer science enhances practical application capabilities and offers its own theoretical interests.

Is physics 1 harder than C?

AP Physics C is the hardest AP Physics class, and likely the hardest of all of the AP Science classes. It is only recommended for students that scored a 4 or 5 in AP Physics 1 and scored a 4 or 5 in AP Precalculus, AP Calculus AB, or AP Calculus BC in a previous school year.

Is studying CS still worth it?

Yes, computer science is still worth it for a strong career, offering high salaries and demand, but the job market is shifting due to AI and automation, making fundamentals like algorithms, math, and problem-solving more crucial than just coding, while entry-level software developer roles are more competitive, requiring adaptability and focus on higher-level skills like AI/ML or cybersecurity. 

Is physics harder than coding?

Is Computer Science easier than Physics? For many students, yes. Physics requires higher-level math skills, while Computer Science relies more on logic and coding. However, if you dislike coding, you may find CS harder.

My Honest Advice for Computer Science Majors

Is Elon Musk a physicist or engineer?

Elon Musk has a physics degree, not an engineering degree, but he functions as a hands-on engineer and product architect, applying physics principles to design and lead complex projects at companies like Tesla and SpaceX, often calling himself "Chief Engineer". While he holds a Bachelor's in Physics and Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, he drops out of a Stanford physics Ph.D. to pursue business, yet his deep understanding of physics guides his engineering approach, according to his biographers and industry insiders.
 

Are CS majors losing jobs?

Students flocked to computer science departments, but the jobs had dried up by the time many graduated. A whopping 170,000 undergraduates majored in the field in 2024—more than double the number in 2014. And now, recent computer science graduates face some of the highest unemployment rates, at 6.1%.

Will CS get replaced by AI?

AI Is Transforming, Not Replacing, Computer Scientists

AI is reshaping the tech industry by automating repetitive coding tasks and amplifying human creativity. Rather than eliminating jobs, AI is shifting the focus of computer science toward designing smarter, more ethical, and human-centered systems.

Is 27 too late to start coding?

No, 27 is absolutely not too old to learn programming; many people successfully switch careers into tech at this age or older, proving age is less of a barrier than passion, dedication, and practical skill-building, though you might focus on leveraging existing experience (like data analysis) rather than expecting to become a top-tier software engineer by 30. Employers value what you can do, so build marketable skills, create a strong portfolio, and remember that persistence pays off, even if the learning curve feels steeper at times. 

Is CS the hardest major?

Computer science is often regarded as one of the most challenging majors to pursue in college—but why is that? The field's complexity, rigorous mathematical foundations and emphasis on abstract thinking contribute to its perceived difficulty.

Is physics the hardest major?

Physics is consistently ranked as one of the hardest college majors due to its demanding blend of advanced mathematics, abstract theoretical concepts (like quantum mechanics and relativity), and intense problem-solving, requiring significant time commitment and strong analytical skills, though its difficulty relative to other STEM fields like Engineering or Chemistry can vary by individual aptitude.
 

Do med schools want college physics or general physics?

Physics: Many medical schools require applicants to have completed one or more college-level physics courses, which may cover topics such as classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, and thermodynamics.

Why is college physics so difficult?

College physics often presents challenges due to conceptual misconceptions and high failure rates, with some students struggling significantly on exams. The course typically demands a strong understanding of mathematical concepts, including calculus and differential equations, which can be daunting for many.

Do CS majors need physics?

CS majors must take both a Mechanics class (PHYSICS21, PHYSICS41, PHYSICS61) and an Electricity and Magnetism class (PHYSICS23, PHYSICS43, PHYSICS63). Mixing classes from different series is acceptable. Physics labs are not required for the CS major.

Is it easy to get an A* in computer science?

No, getting an A* in Computer Science (especially at A-Level or university) is generally not considered easy; it requires significant discipline, consistent practice, strong problem-solving, and deep understanding beyond basic concepts, involving complex algorithms, mathematics, and extensive programming, though it's achievable with strategic effort. Success depends on mastering fundamentals, applying theory, consistent revision, and excellent exam technique, making it time-consuming and rigorous rather than inherently simple. 

Is it okay to skip physics in high school?

Physics isn't just for future physics and engineering majors! It's just as important as taking a full year of biology and a full year of chemistry. Do not skip this important science class in high school. And, while you are at it, make sure to take a fourth lab science your senior year as well.

Was Elon Musk a coder?

Yes, Elon Musk was a self-taught programmer who started coding as a child, creating his first video game, Blastar, at age 12 and selling its code, which laid the foundation for his tech ventures like Zip2 and X.com (PayPal). While he's known more as an entrepreneur and visionary now, programming was a fundamental skill that enabled his early success and remains crucial to his companies, with languages like C++, Python, and Java used at Tesla and SpaceX. 

What is the 80 20 rule in programming?

The 80/20 rule (Pareto Principle) in programming means 80% of outcomes come from 20% of effort, guiding focus on high-impact areas like core features, critical code modules, and essential learning concepts to maximize efficiency and results. In practice, this means 80% of users use 20% of features, 80% of bugs are in 20% of code, and beginners should master core fundamentals (like data types, loops, functions) before diving deep into obscure details to achieve 80% of results quickly.
 

Will AI replace coders by 2040?

Research from Oak Ridge National Laboratory maintains there's a high probability of AI replacing software developers by 2040. This aligns with survey data showing 30% of developers expect AI to replace their development work.

What job pays $400,000 a year without a degree?

The most prominent "$400,000 job without a college degree" discussed in recent news is a Walmart Supercenter Store Manager, where compensation can reach that level through a combination of increased base pay (around $128k average), significant bonuses (up to 200% of base), and annual stock grants (up to $20k) for top performers, making the role lucrative for those rising from hourly work. Other paths to high income without a degree include skilled trades, tech sales, and specialized roles like power plant operators, often achieved through skills-based training, certificates, or apprenticeships rather than a traditional four-year degree.
 

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Engineers making $500k/year are typically highly specialized, experienced professionals in tech (Software, AI, Cloud), Petroleum, Electrical, or Chemical fields, working at top tech firms (FAANG, startups), hedge funds, or in senior management/architect roles, often with significant stock/bonus components, not just base salary. Key roles include Principal/Distinguished Engineers, AI/ML Specialists, Data Scientists, and Directors, requiring advanced degrees and deep expertise in high-demand areas like distributed systems or high-frequency trading. 

What is the $900,000 AI job?

The "$900,000 AI job" refers to a viral Netflix job posting from mid-2023 for a Machine Learning Platform Product Manager, offering up to $900,000 in total compensation (base + bonus/stock), highlighting the immense demand for top AI talent in tech, finance, and other industries, though such roles are rare, demanding deep expertise in AI/ML and data science, with overall AI salaries varying widely.
 

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

Professions making $400,000 a year generally fall into medicine (specialty surgeons, anesthesiologists, dentists), high-level corporate roles (CEOs, C-Suite), finance (investment banking, top finance execs), law (partners), technology (senior engineers, tech sales), and top-tier sales (medical equipment, enterprise software). These roles demand significant education, experience, specialized skills, or high performance, often with compensation including bonuses and stock. 

Why is Gen Z struggling to get jobs?

Gen Z struggles to get jobs due to fewer entry-level openings (AI taking tasks, older workers staying longer), intense competition (AI screening, high application volume), shifting employer preferences (favoring experience, perceived entitlement/readiness gaps), and economic pressures, creating a tough market where many feel stuck despite higher education levels.
 

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

You can earn $3,000 a month without a degree in roles like Dental/Medical Assistant (with short training), skilled trades (Electrician, HVAC), Delivery Driver (UPS, FedEx), specialized sales, Real Estate Agent, and some tech roles like AI Trainer or Medical Coder, often requiring certifications, apprenticeships, or a strong work ethic for entry, with remote options available in customer service or data entry if you have strong computer skills, notes www.nysmda.com, Tallo, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/3000-A-Month-Jobs-No-Degree.