Is it too late to switch from engineering to physics or math?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential transition from an engineering degree, specifically Electrical Engineering (EE), to a focus on physics and pure mathematics. Participants explore concerns about career satisfaction, the feasibility of pursuing graduate studies in physics or math with an engineering background, and the implications of double majoring.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to switch from EE to theoretical physics and pure math, citing concerns about the creativity involved in engineering.
  • Another participant suggests that EE has connections to physics and math, indicating that there are enjoyable streams within EE that draw from these fields.
  • A different viewpoint posits that undergraduate engineering is more challenging than undergraduate science, and suggests pursuing a BSEE followed by a PhD in Applied Physics as a viable path.
  • One participant acknowledges the appeal of an EE degree but expresses a strong preference for pursuing pure math and theoretical physics directly.
  • Another participant argues that it may not be feasible to pursue both pure mathematics and physics simultaneously, suggesting that one might have to choose between them due to their differing natures.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of opinions regarding the transition from engineering to physics or math. While some see value in an EE degree, others emphasize a strong preference for pure math and physics. There is no consensus on the feasibility of pursuing both fields simultaneously.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss various pathways and personal experiences, but there are no settled conclusions on the best approach to transitioning from engineering to physics or math. The discussion reflects individual perspectives and uncertainties regarding academic and career choices.

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Engineering --> Physics & Math

Hello all,

I applied as a transfer student ( junior level ) to all the UC schools (except Merced ) as a first choice in Elec Engineering and second in Pure Math. My first choice if accepted is Berkeley.

Lately, however, I've been worried that EE could, over time, become too dry and routine without much creative thought to keep me interested. My ultimate passion is studying theoretical physics & Pure Math. My only hesitations in going this direction have been due to reasons of finance. I'm feeling a little trapped as I sent in the application months ago, and expect decisions in the next couple of months. I am wondering what my options might be.

Is it too late to get into physics or math?

Is it possible to get into a graduate school in physics or math with an undergrad EE degree? Would double majoring help ( ie the second major would be in either math or physics ).

If I do follow through with the EE route, I will most likely spend all free time studying physics and math on my own, (I do so now anyhow). Is it possible to obtain the same working knowledge of a Phd without actually going through the process, ie: a seriously motivated hobbyist?

Any opinions / comments are deeply appreciated.

Thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
EE is good

As far as i know, EE is not completely away from the pure physics and Maths part, there are quite a good number of streams in the EE which take their origins from physics and Maths, u will really enjoy them :smile:
 
Undergrad Engineering is harder than just undergrad science. Grad science is harder than grad engineering. Think about it, it slowly sinks in :)


On a second thought - get BSEE from UCBerkley, and then go for Applied Physics PhD - you won't go wrong
 
Thank you both electromagnet and cronxeh for replying. I have to admit, an EE degree wouldn't suck! I think I would enjoy it tremendously, but I believe if I had the opportunity, I would choose to work in pure math and theoretical physics.

My plan up to this point was to get my EE degree so I could have the option of either working, or go on to grad school ( or both ). I don't know if this is the best plan though, it seems I might be better off shooting for the moon and just going straight for the math and physics.
 
I don't think it's possible to do Pure Mathematics and Physics at the same time. You'll end up dropping one or the other because they are completely different. One is applied and the other isn't.

I originally planned Pure Mathematics and Physics, but now, I can't stand the Physics anymore. It's cool and everything, but I hate applying math.
 

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