So I have been having a bit of a crisis lately because I am a mechanical engineering major and the thing is, I just can’t stand labs or really anything hands on but I have a passion for the scientific theory and math. Essentially, I love sitting down and solving problems but hate technical work. Are there any majors that I might be able to pursue that combine math and science but avoid anything hands on?
Physics?
I have thought about that, but is it possible to find a job with a physics major without continuing to get a Ph.D?
Absolutely, the American Institute of Physics has statistics on [emplyment of graduates with a B.S. in physics](Field of Employment for Physics Bachelors in the Private Sector). In my years as a physics professor and advisor to undergraduates, I have observed taht our physics majors are able to find jobs with a B.S.
What about statistics or bioinformatics? Both analyze data but don’t spend time in a wet lab.
Academic physics does require a PhD, but you can certainly work in industry. It’s better paying and less saturated anyway.