Engineering undergrad -> astrophysics PhD

[Segala]

Hi people!

My long-time goal is to pursue a PhD in astrophysics. Since an undergraduate in astrophysics is not available to me, I'm looking for alternatives. There are two cool engineering programs at hand: one in civil engineering, the other one in informatics engineering. Both are interesting but I wonder what is a better option as far as a graduate career in astrophysics is concerned.

What do you think? Any personal experience? Thanks for any advice!
Seg.

 

[ZapperZ]

1. Pick a school where you want to do your graduate school in astrophysics.

2. Look at the courses/syllabus, and what they require.

3. Do you think you are equipped to understand and do well in such a program?

Also, read this:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=64966

Zz.

 

[Segala]

Dear ZapperZ,
thanks for your advice. But I want to rephrase my post.

Because I have an undergrad in music, no physics/astrophysics graduate department is open to receive my application. I'm quite confident in my background, to include maths, physics and astrophysics. However, I'm convinced that, without an undergrad in science/engineering I will not get any far.

There are, however, only two options available to me at this moment: civil or informatics engineering. So, my question is actually about what degree will be more useful (specially because I'm quite ignorant about engineering). The civil eng. curriculum has a heavy mechanics component, to include fluid mechanics and dynamics. On the other hand, the informatic curriculum lies on programming. Since my ultimate goal is somewhere in the field of computational fluid dynamics applied to astrophysics, I'm really confused.

Any thoughts?
Seg.

 

[carlgrace]

My thoughts is you will be woefully unprepared for an astrophysics Ph.D. with a BS in engineering. The mathematical rigor will eat you alive. I say this as an engineer who sometimes works with astrophysicists.

 

[Matrix0]

Hello Seg,

As a scientist with a background in astrophysics, I can say that both civil engineering and informatics engineering can be valuable paths towards a PhD in astrophysics. While a background in astrophysics may seem like the most direct route, many successful astrophysicists come from a variety of backgrounds, including engineering.

Both civil engineering and informatics engineering can provide you with valuable skills that can be applied in the field of astrophysics. Civil engineering, for example, can provide you with a strong foundation in mathematics and problem-solving, which are essential skills in astrophysics research. Informatics engineering, on the other hand, can give you a strong understanding of computer programming and data analysis, which are also crucial in astrophysics.

Ultimately, the decision between the two programs will depend on your personal interests and strengths. I would recommend researching the specific courses and opportunities within each program to see which aligns more closely with your goals in astrophysics.

In terms of personal experience, I have seen successful astrophysicists come from a variety of backgrounds, including engineering. My advice would be to choose the program that you are most passionate about and that will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to excel in your future astrophysics studies.

Best of luck in your decision-making process and in your pursuit of a PhD in astrophysics!