Major in Physics/Materials Science, or Computer Science/Engineering?

College Majors Science Majors
1

Hello.

I am a Senior in High School. I am interested in the fields of science, particularly molecular physics and materials science. However, my parents are convincing me to do engineering or computer science, because “jobs are more readily available”. However, I am interested in more theory and innovation rather than construction.

FYI:

Engineering Stats:
-I was in PLTW for grades 9-11 (will not be in 12)
-9th Grade: Final exam = 8th stanine (half of class got 9)
-10th Grade: Final exam = 9th stanine
-11th Grade: Final exam = 8th stanine (half of class got 9, bombed history sections)
-Better at theory/designing and programming, not so good at actual construction

BUT
11th grade science fair project: Best electricity project in Tri-State Science Fair

Science/Physics Stats:
-AP Physics C = 5, SAT Physics = 800
-Director’s Award (Best High School Physics Research) in State Science Fair
-Most Outstanding Materials Science project in Tri-State Science Fair (same project as last)
-Published Physics Research

-State Science Governor’s School (full scholarship, acceptance rate = 12%)

General Stats:

SAT = 2250 = 690R + 800M + 760W
SAT Subject = 780 M2, 780 USH, 800 Physics
GPA = 4.0UW, 4.74W
AP: USH = 5, Calc BC = 5, Physics C = 5, Stats = 5, no others yet.

Good ECs with leadership and awards.

Please do not let this be a chance thread, just give me insight based on what I am more capable of. Thanks!

2

Material Science and Physics are good majors with which to find jobs or go on to graduate school if you so choose. The advantage of CS or Engineering is that your degree tells employers what kinds of skills to expect. However, with a physics degree you can pretty much compete for the same jobs if you sell yourself properly. I have seen physics majors from my university, Illinois Tech, get jobs in software and engineering so my suggestion is for you to study a major which you find interesting and challenging. Once you graduate, you will be able to decide which course you will take in your career.