HELP: Physics or Applied Physics or Engineering?

<p>Hey, I'm hoping I can get some help thinking through what major/minor to pursue.
I just applied to five schools for the following majors:
-B.S. Aerospace Engineering - San Jose State
-B.S. Physics - San Francisco State
-B.S. Physics - University of SF
-B.A. Physics - UC Berkeley
-B.S. Applied Physics - UC Santa Cruz
I will be transferring with an A.S.-T in Mathematics and possibly an A.S.-T in Physics pending my prerequisite challenge to take Physics II and III concurrently, otherwise I'll be one class short of the Physics A.S. My GPA will fall somewhere in the 3.0-3.2 range depending on the grades I receive on the finals I just took.</p>

<p>So here's my dilemma.. I'm 25 and I'm not sure if I want to spend another 8-10 years pursuing a PhD in Physics. I really don't have much interest in Mechanical, Civil or Computer Engineering but the thought of a high paying job after two more years is appealing. I don't think I have the academic profile to get into Berkeley, so if I had my choice of the other four, I would be stuck choosing between Aerospace Engineering or Applied Physics. If that doesn't pan out and I major in Physics, would a minor in Engineering make me more marketable? Or is switching to an Engineering major (if they allow me to) a more realistic choice? </p>

<p>Any food for thought would be appreciated! Thanks!</p>

<p>Also, SJSU offers a BS in General Engineering; would this be a lucrative choice with its broadness or would it be looked down upon for lack of specialization?</p>

<p>One last thought: another option would be Applied Mathematics. Does this have a positive job outlook? Regardless of what degree I get, I know I do not want to teach.</p>

<p>Transferring into an engineering program with an AS in physics is from from unusual. It’s basically the norm. At the freshmen/sophomore level, there is very little distinction between a physics major and an engineering major. Most of the actual engineering courses don’t begin until the junior level. So…yes, that option is quite possible. </p>

<p>A bachelor’s in physics is a very marketable degree, but only really outside of physics. It’s appealing in jobs where mathematical ability and problem solving abilities are important. However, a bachelor’s in physics is not going to open up many jobs actually -in- physics. To do that, a PhD is almost a requirement. </p>

<p>Any one of the degrees you list would be good for finding a job with Applied Physics being a bit better than Physics if you are looking for an engineering-type job. </p>

<p>I am currently at the crossroads of having to define a pathway with my Physics degree. What I understood from my advisor was that an Applied Physics concentration is for those who desire a less traditional field of work. It’s designed for people who want to pursue engineering, law school, or another technical field that is not normally associated with Physics, but honors the critical thinking and analytical skills of the science. I would choose this concentration if finishing your education at the B.S level is your goal. This would draw you away from any teaching careers as well.</p>

<p>Unless you already have your ideal career figured out, I don’t think there is any critical difference in Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, or General Engineering. Ultimately what is going to give you that edge is internships - work experience. I’m sure silicon valley has plenty of engineering internships. How competitive they are is something you’ll want to research. </p>

<p>I definitely think that’s what will help give you an easier transition from B.S to career. I’d be on your game though, the STEM majors are not easy to translate with only a B.S. It’s all about experience at this level. </p>

<p>Hope this helps,</p>

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<p>Thanks guys, this definitely helps. I did some perusing around this site and I think I’ve got a pretty decent of an idea of what I’ll be getting myself into for each option. Thanks again!</p>