Double Major: Astrophys/MechE?

<p>Hey, I posted this in the UC Transfers section, but figured I might get a better response here. </p>

<p>Original Post:
Hey,
I applied to Berkeley for the Astrophysics program and haven't heard yet, but assuming i get in, what do you think the possibility of getting into the MechE major as a double would be? I know the whole engineering department up there is super compacted, would i have any priority as an enrolled student? Thanks for the replies.</p>

<p>For the record: since this post, I've been accepted to Cal Poly SLO and UCLA for aerospace engineering.</p>

<p>Are you entering as a freshman or as a transfer? As a transfer I'd think it would be impossible.</p>

<p>Transfer. Sorry, didn't make that clear.</p>

<p>Not possible.</p>

<p>can you give examples why it's not possible? Is it simply not allowed, making it impossible? Or is it due to the unit cap (on that note, do you know the specific cap? I can calculate if it is possible or not with that)? Or is it YOUR opinion that it is impossible? And by impossible, do you mean "really difficult?" </p>

<p>I'm not doubting the difficulty of the course load, and that's not my question... my question is more about just getting the opportunity to double major. I've read on the Cal website that with the "Broad focus astrophysics" degree another science/engineering degree is RECOMMENDED. To me, that doesn't sound impossible, it sounds as if the school ENCOURAGES it.</p>

<p>I meant, I think it is not allowed and so impossible. I am not certain, however. If you want certainty, contact the College of Engineering.</p>

<p>Yeah, I've been wondering about this as well. I'm a freshman admit at Berkeley, in the college of letters and sciences, and I've been thinking about Astrophysics/Mechanics or Astrophysics/CS double majors.</p>

<p>"This Astrophysics curriculum path is available to those taking a broader range of courses in physical sciences and engineering. Double majoring in sciences other than physics and in engineering is encouraged. This curriculum also allows more flexibility for late starters and those desiring a less demanding program in physics to obtain an Astrophysics degree." (Undergraduate</a> Goals, Berkeley Astronomy Department)</p>

<p>that's the quote I was talking about. It is definitely possible, but maybe not to transfer students.</p>

<p>I certainly plan on making a trip up there if I get in. I was just trying to see if anyone on these boards had any insight. I would really love to study Astrophysics, but the financial reality leads me to getting an engineering degree.</p>

<p>Yes, I meant not possible for transfer students.</p>

<p>any knowledge on whether nuclear engr would be easier to get into (and out of)? There seems to be less mandatory courses for NE. Any thoughts? Or am I still dreaming?</p>

<p>(I'm going to email/call and go up to berkeley soon here, talk to some admissions ppl, engr deans or something as well. I'll keep you guys posted for anyone else interested)</p>