Switching from Physics to Economics.. and trying to transfer to Bentley, suggestions?

College Majors Business Major
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<p>Hey guys, a little backstory:</p>

<p>I'm an astrophysics major, actually a double major in physics and mathematics, but yeah. Through a lot of friends with the same major, talking to a ton of professors, I've realized I won't really get far with this option, and I need to find something that is both interesting, and good to be able to survive off of (Long story short, astrophysics research options are very slim, and as much as I love it, i still want to be able to live a decent life). I know this is really the stereotypical business major, who is in it for the money, I used to joke around about it all the time with my friends in high school. Little did I know I'd be in the situation myself..</p>

<p>I'm thinking of switching to Economics, as it seems most closely related to mathematics. Although my first question would be, what is the most closely related field of business with mathematics? </p>

<p>I chose physics, mainly because I love astronomy and math. I'd love doing stuff that involves rigorous mathematics (atleast in a business standard). </p>

<p>Secondly, I'm thinking of transferring to Bentley University for this. I'm currently enrolled in a state university, not great, but decent, for Arts and Sciences. What are Bentley's admissions like? I know the acceptance rate is 43% and whatnot, I've got the SAT scores and such for it, but I feel as though it'd seem weird for someone in Astrophysics/Mathematics to go into Economics, and explaining that to an admissions officer would be annoying, to say the least. </p>

<p>What are the main jobs of an Economics major like? I've done a little bit of research and it led me to banking, which is cool and all, but there's got to be others.. </p>

<p>Sorry for all the questions but Thanks a lot</p>

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<p>Hey! I am actually in the exact opposite position as you. I am an economics major at one of the top universities in Canada. I love the subject and I am good at it but as much as I hate to admit it, it was not my first choice of major, geology was but I didn’t do well enough in my geology core in order to transfer departments. </p>

<p>All right, now for your first question. Economics would be a great field to go into if you enjoy mathematics. Especially if you choose to focus heavily on econometrics. As far as math related fields in business, look into finance and accounting. </p>

<p>Now, before you go and transfer, think carefully, it sounds like you really do enjoy what you are currently doing. You don’t have to give that up you know, Physics and Math are two very difficult fields to study, hence why not many people go into them. I may get flamed for saying this but Physics and Math is the closest thing to an engineering degree that well, isn’t engineering. You could go into business with your current focus, a difficult degree such as Physics, Math or Engineering proves to employers that you know how to think, problem solve and have above average quantitative skills. Any degree with a huge actuarial focus opens a lot of doors. You will have more options as a Physics major than an Economics major, keep that in mind. </p>

<p>Now, I guess I better talk about my major and what I can do with it haha :). All right, it is not on the level of Physics, Math & Engineering but it is an extremely versatile degree. As the big three I have just mentioned it requires you to take quite a few math courses, which employers love. It has several specialization areas for you to choose from such as macro, micro, development, financial, econometrics…the list goes on. Job prospects could really be anything. A lot of economics majors go into Finance, some go into Investment Banking, some as Stock Brokers, others into research. Personally, I am considering a MSC in Urban Design/Land Use Planning and going into Real Estate Development when I finish my undergrad.</p>

<p>Also, about it being “weird” to switch from Astro Physics. Its not weird, they are both math intensive degrees. You will be able to transfer some of your credits. I cant stress this enough though, please think this over several times before making the call, especially since you are in a field that you enjoy.</p>

<p>It still bothers me how much I wish I was in an earth science or a physics program but I chose to go with my second choice, I dont regret it because I find it interesting and I’m good at it though. But if your enrolled in your #1 interest, seriously think it over before switching.</p>