Physics or Engineering: Which Path Should I Choose for College?

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Tom McCurdy
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    Engineering Physics
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision between pursuing a degree in physics or engineering for college. The original poster expresses a passion for invention and a growing interest in physics, specifically the quest for a Theory of Everything (TOE). They consider applying to top institutions like the University of Michigan for engineering or Yale for physics, while also acknowledging the prestige of MIT. A key insight from a participant highlights that attending a rigorous engineering school allows flexibility in the first two undergraduate years, enabling exploration of both fields before making a definitive choice.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of undergraduate degree structures in physics and engineering
  • Familiarity with the Theory of Everything (TOE) in physics
  • Knowledge of college rankings and their implications on career paths
  • Awareness of the differences in calculus courses for math, engineering, and physics majors
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the undergraduate programs at the University of Michigan and Yale
  • Explore the curriculum differences between physics and engineering degrees
  • Investigate the admissions process and requirements for MIT
  • Learn about the role of academic advisors in navigating college course selections
USEFUL FOR

High school students contemplating their college major, aspiring inventors, and individuals interested in the intersections of physics and engineering.

Tom McCurdy
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I am posting this with the knowedge that I probably won't have internet acess for 2 weeks, however I still would like to get some response. Since I can remember my dream was to be an inventer. I loved the idea of edison's work shop, and hoped to modify it to create a company similar to sharper image. However over the last year I have been becomming increasingly into physics, specifically the quest for toe. I have to apply for colleges next year during the fall and am starting to get worried. Do I go for a college that is good in engineering say U of M (4th ranked nationally) or should I go to a college that is mainly physics say Yale or something. I guess I could solve the dimlema by getting into MIT, but its never good to rely on something. Any suggestions, should I do physics or engineering?


tom
 
Science news on Phys.org
Notice that the greatest physicist of the middle 20th century, Richard Feynman, went to MIT. If you go to a TOUGH engineering school, and explain your dilemma to your advisors, you should be able to do the first two undergraduate years without making a complete choice. If your other temptation had been math you couldn't do that; calculus for math majors is a different subject from calculus for engineers and physicists.
 

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