<p>I am interested in getting a masters in a major (materials science) that is different from my undergraduate major (chemical engineering). If I wanted to into the chemical industry after my studies (say being a process engineer), would my masters even help me in getting a job or advancing in the company?</p>
<p>Can you change your major? Yes</p>
<p>If you look around, you will see that many professors switch their concentration between undergrad and grad. I have even seen English to a science. In your case you are switching from a science to science. You should be fine, because the analytical skills you gain from studying chemical engineering can be applied to most sciences.</p>
<p>Some programs will require that you take specific undergrad courses. So there is a chance you may have to take a few undergrad courses. You will have to check with the program you are interested in applying to. But it shouldn’t be a big issue.</p>
<p>Will a masters help you in the industry? Chances are it will. But you never know what life has to offer. You may want to look around at possible job positions you could have right after you graduate. Perhaps you could work part-time for a company, and they will pay for your masters.</p>
<p>I would love to know how many people who pursue their masters degree are doing so in a major that is totally different than their undergrad… Any good websites with some stats?</p>
<p>In my MBA cohort, about 12 out of 30 actually did their undergrad in business, economics or accounting. (I think 6 have Education degrees, and 5 of us completed a Political Science discipline… we even have a pre-med)</p>