Should I major in engineering?

<p>Hi, so I am a freshman in college and I am really not sure what to major in. I entered college an Accounting major because I really had no idea what I wanted to do so I went with a business degree by default. The thing is, I am considering switching to engineering. The main reason I want to switch into engineering is because I know that an engineering degree is generally of much higher value than a business degree and that undergrads who major in engineering generally have better job prospects than those who major in business I know I can handle the mathematics and I tend to be very studious by nature so I am confident I can handle the course work. Now, this isn't to say I may not want to end up working in business one day, I may choose to go for an MBA down the road, but I think an engineering degree as an undergrad would be much more useful. So, should I just go for it or what do you think?</p>

<p>Engineering, no matter which field, is understanding the physical system and then being able to describe it mathematically. You then test your math model (computer or hand solutions, doesn’t matter) with known data. You then use that verified model to predict the behaviour under new conditions. Using those results to then say whether the item meets it’s design goals or not.</p>

<p>So, having good math skills and being studious are two of the skills needed to be a good engineer. The critical trait is that ability to visualize the problem you are trying to solve/study and understand the physics (or chemistry) and everything else that goes into it. If you also have that trait, go for it. If not, engineering school will be very frustrating and your chances of future success would be limited.</p>

<p>Queatio, if you are looking for a lucrative future career and a truly middle class lifestyle, then go for accounting. I know that the starting salaries for engineer majors begins around 65k-80k, however, the salary scale is likely limited to 120k in the long run. The accounting starting salary range for entrery level is around 45k-50k. However, in the long term say(7-15) yrs ,this range flies up to 120k-600k. CPA is what you shoot for. It’s the key that enables you to open up ANY DOOR in the business world. As far as you concern, studying accounting = understanding the world , solving the matrix, and keeping updated. in addition, accounting leads you to eventually start your own firm, or to be the CEO,CFO for a large corporation.</p>

<p>For wider information, check the link " EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ACCOUNTING."</p>

<p>Good luck for whatever field you choose.</p>

<p>I would give it a more neutral approach: depending on how you lead your career, both could lead to 600k to millions. You have to know that a degree only opens doors but it is up to the person to follow through with their careers to achieve what they deserve.</p>

<p>I would say follow where your passion/interest goes as without those you will not succeed in your career.</p>

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<p>This is simply not true. After 7-15 years, very few accountants would be making anywhere near this range. Salary statistics support this. Not saying it isn’t possible but you could say that it is possible for anyone in any major. On average, engineers earn more than accountants throughout their careers.</p>

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<p>The same can be said for anyone with an enginering degree. Statistics show that many CEOs have engineering degrees.</p>

<p>Both professions can lead to great careers so you should choose what is more enjoyable.</p>

<p>When I said 120k-600+, I was considering CPAs, CMAs, consulting accounting firms, tax lawyers, partners in big firms, and not simple accountants. </p>

<p>Notice I said; “in the long term.” Thus, from what I,ve seen, most accountants tend to pursue higher certifications and degrees permitting them to unlock most lucrative and " enjoyable" careers.</p>

<p>That’s just my opinion!</p>