Engineering Aerospace engineering or Engineering physics for the Space Industry?

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Pursuing a master's in aerospace engineering is likely more beneficial for employment in the space industry compared to engineering physics, especially for companies like Boeing and SpaceX. Aerospace engineering programs typically offer practical courses in fluid mechanics, aerodynamics, and space mission planning, which are crucial for industry roles. In contrast, topics covered in engineering physics, such as relativity and quantum mechanics, are generally less relevant for direct employment in this field. While nanoengineering may have niche applications, the core skills needed for aerospace positions lean heavily towards traditional engineering principles. Transitioning to aerospace engineering is advisable for a stronger alignment with industry requirements.
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Hi everyone,

I'm currently finishing my bachelor's degree in engineering physics (integrated master´s) and wondering what I should pursue on my master's degree and if I should move from my current path. My main objective is to work in the space industry (quite vague I imagine).

Would it be beneficial (from an employment perspective for companies such as Boeing,SpaceX and government ones such as ESA/NASA) to change from my upcoming master's to a master's in aerospace engineering? I mean right out of college and assuming no work experience. If this companies, for example, wouldn't take unexperienced candidates consider the same question with whatever "middle path" is necessary (here I mean stuff like a post-grad on International Space University for example).

How about knowledge/skills wise? Aerospace seems to offer a lot more "practical courses" in advanced fluid mechanics, aerodynamics and even space missions planning in the 5th year. Engineering physics on the other hand offers (the engineering part of the master's) nanotecnology and nanoelectronics, condensed matter, relativity and cosmology, a third curricular unit on quantum mechanics, astrophysics, etc.

If it helps, areas I'm most interested in so far: applied physics,electronics and programming.

Any information would be much appreciated.
 
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Relativity, cosmology, condensed matter, and quantum mechanics will be utterly irrelevant for employment in the space industry. Nano-stuff may/may not be relevant, depending on what aspect you want to pursue. Fluid mechanics, solid mechanics, and aerodynamics will most likely be essential to even get in the door. Can you see which way this is pointing?
 
Yes, I suspected the name wasn't just for show :p

Thanks.

Any extra helpful information is much appreciated.
 

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