Could a Physics major get accepted into the Co-Op program? Double Major in Physics and ME?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Clemson University
1

I was accepted to Clemson to start this Fall term as a General Engineering major, but have decided I may want to switch into Physics. I haven’t attended Orientation and scheduled classes yet, so this isn’t final. However, I recently found out that I’m not going to receive nearly as much financial aid as I initially anticipated because of unforeseen circumstances regarding the debt my father was in when he passed away. If I went into Engineering, I could go into the Co-op program and have the rest of my education practically paid for. I noticed however that a certain (very small) percentage of non-engineering majors are also accepted into the Co-Op program, and was curious if anyone thinks a Physics major could get into it.

I was wondering if I should double major in Physics and Mechanical Engineering, just to give myself a stronger chance of getting into the program, but I don’t want to give myself such a rigorous course load that I don’t have time for my own research, which might be vital since I want to pursue an advanced degree in Physics too. I want to pursue a career specifically in Physics on the theoretical/computational side, so ME might not complement that super well, or at least not as well as something like an emphasis in Computer Science, but if it pays for my education then it sounds like an appealing direction.

To sum it up, this post basically presents two sets of questions.

  1. Is Cooperative Education exclusively for Engineer Majors? Is it way too unlikely that a Physics major would be accepted into it?
  2. Is double majoring in Physics and Mechanical Engineering a bad idea? Would another Engineering major be a better complement to my Physics degree? Is it just way too much to ask of myself? Should I just take the coursework for both this first year and then ask myself again if I want to double major?
2

You really need to talk with some folks directly at Clemson. I will say in general terms that the Engineering Requirements take up the vast majority of credits in the typical student’s schedule. Therefore, trying to “double major” with Physics and Mechanical needs to be carefully examined. It may add to the amount of time it would take you to graduate. Adding more class credits would limit your time for possibly working a part time job on or near campus. If you bring a substantial number of AP credits with you, that may help. (From a quick look at the website, Materials Engineering and Physics might be a more natural combination… but the Clemson folks can tell you this.)

You will also want to look at any extra fees that may be associated with each major. Doing the Engineering piece may add costs even as you seek access to Engineering Co-op to help cover them.

I would suggest reaching out to an advisor in each of the programs and asking 1. For a general road map of courses for each major. 2. How a “double” might be accomplished. 3. If Physics majors have access to Co-op (I am guessing “no” but they could help you find out the likelihood of a paid summer job.) Regarding major requirements, the Undergraduate Bulletin, which is available on the Clemson site, can also provide some insight into course requirements for each major.

Also, have you spoken to Financial Aid to understand their decision and make sure they understand your situation? Best wishes in your pursuits!