Master's of Engineering

College Majors Engineering Majors
1

<p>Hi,</p>

<p>I'm a sophomore (almost junior) at our local state university and planning to double-major in astronomy and physics with a minor in mathematics. Right now, I'm on-track to complete that by June 2008. </p>

<p>I had a high school internship at NASA last summer and really enjoyed it. I think I would be happy to work at a big engineering company like NASA or Boeing, but physics has recently really sparked my interest. I have had a tough time deciding between the two and was thinking that I could focus on physics and astronomy for my undergrad, and then follow that up with a master's of engineering (I think I heard most are one year, is this correct?). I would like to pursue a PhD in physics afterwards, but am afraid this might be overkill. FWIW, time isn't much of an issue; I'll be a fairly young graduate and will barely be 19 when I plan to graduate. </p>

<p>*I guess what I'm asking about is if anybody could tell me a little more about the master's of engineering programs? How long do they last? Would it be too much to earn a master's of engineering and then a PhD. in Physics? Are there any classes that I should take to "prepare" for admissions (I'm mostly taking physics and math classes right now)? Would completing a master's of engineering program affect admissions to graduate school (either as a help or hinderance)? *</p>

<p>Thanks in advance for any advice :)</p>

2

<p>Usually masters programs take 2, 3 years tops. You should probably just go for a PHD in either physics or engineering, because you can still most likely get jobs in engineering companies. Engineering phd is probably better though... Anyway, if you get a phd, you get cheaper schooling because most likely you'll be fully paid for and it takes 4-5 years total (and you'd have to finish master's coursework so you'd be hitting 2 birds with one stone.)</p>

<p>-PNote</p>

3

<p>I meant to say apply for a phd program directly instead of masters, unless you are totally unsure...then you should wait and maybe work in the industry. But direct phd enrollment is good.</p>

4

<p>Cool, thanks for the input. </p>

<p>I think a PhD program is definitely my goal right now, but I'm getting a little nervous about the competitiveness of such programs. I was thinking that having a master's degree might help increase my chances? I guess for now, I'll just give it my best shot and try to keep my grades up, get involved in research, and prepare for the GRE's ;)</p>