Hello, everyone. I am thinking about switching my major. My current major is Computer Science and Engineering Technology. I would go into regular engineering but for certain reasons I am not going to discuss I cannot. Currently, I am deciding if I want to switch my major to Physics. I enjoy both subjects greatly. However, could someone tell me what a Physics majors brings to the table? What type of classes will I be taking, what kind of job opportunities are available, in general, was it interesting? I plan on going into grad school and studying Computer Engineering. I am worried that an engineering technology degree will not be enough to have me be accepted into a grad program. Will physics give me a good chance of being accepted? What is the best option for me? Thank you for any replies.
While physics and engineering are different, one of the advantages of a physics major is that it proves you have the quantitative and mathematical chops to succeed in an engineering curriculum.
Regarding grad school, I’m not an expert on graduate school admission–all I can do is say the following:
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Many graduate programs in engineering are open to applicants from the physical sciences and other engineering fields; however, there will probably be a number of deficiencies you’ll have to make up. Some programs will allow you to do this as part of your graduate studies after being admitted, while others will want you to have taken them before matriculating or before applying.
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This is largely anecdotal, but it was not uncommon for my mechanical engineering graduate program to take in physics majors. This was also the case for my school’s electrical/computer engineering graduate department. I knew several people with physics backgrounds. But, in my time there, I never heard of an engineering technology major ever having been admitted. I’m obviously not making some sweeping generalization that it never happens or that it’s the same at every department at every school, but it’s something to think on and find out more about as you try to make a decision.
Another good option, if your school offers it, is to look into an engineering physics major. These tend to be ABET-accredited and probably make for a pretty smooth transition to grad-level engineering.
I’d recommend checking the pre-requisites listed for programs you might be interested in. See if the engineering technology degree would allow you to fulfill those requirements. It might also be that you could take an extra course or two as electives to meet grad schools’ requirements.
In general, a physics degree will be a better choice than engineering technology for graduate school. however much of graduate admissions depends on your accomplishments and research experience so it is certainly possible.