The discussion centers around the value and implications of pursuing an applied physics degree, particularly in relation to engineering physics and job market prospects. Participants explore the differences between these degrees, their accreditation, and potential career paths, while also considering specific programs at institutions like NYU.
Participants express differing opinions on the value of an applied physics degree compared to an engineering degree, indicating that multiple competing views remain regarding the implications for job market readiness and educational pathways.
Participants mention variations in program content and structure across institutions, which may influence the perceived value of applied physics versus engineering degrees. Specific assumptions about job markets and degree outcomes are not fully explored.
Individuals considering a degree in applied physics or engineering physics, students evaluating different educational pathways, and those interested in the job market implications of these degrees may find this discussion relevant.
brymcfly21 said:Is this basically engineering physics? Is this a good idea for someone who loves the concepts of physics but wants a good chance in the job market? Thank you
Student100 said:It depends on the school (I'm assuming you're talking about a BS), if it's called applied physics instead of engineering physics it's likely it isn't ABET accredited. This can be good and bad, depending on what you want to do with the degree. You'll have more leeway in the degree, it may be offered by the physics department instead of the engineering department, and other such things. It does, however, mean you won't have that "engineering" keyword in the degree.
What school are you looking at? EP and AP degrees vary so much between institutions and content it's hard to judge without that context. The most that could be assumed is that an AP degree should be good preparation for an AP graduate program.
brymcfly21 said:NYU, their applied physics bachelors and masters program is apart of their engineering school.
Student100 said:So after looking at the required courses for the major, it's more like a physics degree than an engineering degree.
You get 26 technical electives, 12 free electives, and it also includes a senior project. If you used those 26 electives for math and physics (I would add a course in ODE or PDE's in there, beyond the linear + diff equation class), and one other math, and then took 4 additional upper division classes in physics, you basically have a physics degree. You could then use those 12 for projects/engineering classes if you wanted.
To answer your original question:
If you plan on getting a terminal bachelors degree, this degree isn't going to help you land a job more readily than just majoring in engineering.
brymcfly21 said:I definitely will pursue higher than a bachelors degree so masters at least. So my original plan if I get in there was to the their 3-2 program with physics and some form of engineering and then do a masters in applied physics , how does that sound? I'm not really sure what jobs I can get with an applied physics masters. Thank you for replying by the way!
Student100 said:Why AP rather than engineering?