B.S. in physics, Masters in Aerospace Engineering?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the educational pathway for a high school senior interested in pursuing a career in Aerospace Engineering, particularly in the context of not having access to an Aerospace Engineering program at their local university. Participants explore the suitability of a Bachelor of Science in Physics versus other engineering disciplines, as well as the implications of pursuing a Master's in Aerospace Engineering regarding job opportunities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that studying another engineering field, such as Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, may be more beneficial for a career in Aerospace Engineering.
  • Others argue that a Bachelor of Science in Physics could be pursued if the student has a strong interest in pure science, though it may complicate the transition to engineering.
  • There is mention that a degree in Mechanical Engineering could provide a broader range of job opportunities, as it is sometimes viewed as a subset of Aerospace Engineering.
  • Participants highlight the importance of attending an ABET accredited school for engineering degrees, as this is often preferred by employers.
  • The significance of obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license is discussed, with some noting that it is required in many states to practice independently as an engineer.
  • One participant shares their personal experience of considering a transfer to an engineering program and emphasizes the value of internships and practical experience in the field.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that pursuing an engineering degree is advisable for a career in Aerospace Engineering, but there is no consensus on whether Physics or another engineering discipline is the better choice. The discussion includes multiple viewpoints on the relevance of a PE license and the importance of ABET accreditation.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations in the discussion include varying definitions of engineering roles, the specific requirements for obtaining a PE license, and the differing perceptions of job opportunities related to various degrees.

Who May Find This Useful

High school students considering their college majors, individuals interested in Aerospace Engineering, and those exploring the implications of different engineering degrees on career prospects.

Awesome_Ale
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
Hi, I'm a high school senior and I want to study Aerospace Engineering but my local university doesn't have it and going to another university is not an option, so what should my B.S. be? Physics? or an engineering that is somehow related to aerospace? Plus, does Masters in Aerospace Engineering have good jobs?
Thank you
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You should study another engineering field. Go for Mechanical or Electrical, maybe even software. Whatever interests you.

Physics will make it harder for you to go into engineering (though not impossible), but if you like pure science then study physics. Just want to let you know that a BS in engineering leads to more job opportunities if you want to take time off before pursuing an MS. Also, if you look at hiring from places like Boeing they really prefer engineers with PE licenses. If your ultimate goal is to work as an engineer go to an

ABET credited school: http://www.abet.org/why-accreditation-matters/ *Make sure your university is*

Aim to pass this exam: http://www.nspe.org/resources/licensure/what-pe ...this widens your career options.

Study hard, but have fun! Make sure that during your college you take the time to look for experience over the summer, such as internships. Most internships in STEM are paid. You'll get paid a decent amount. Some places even provide housing. Just giving you a heads up.
 
I agree with bluechip92. If you want to be an engineer, study engineering. For an aero career, either ME or EE will be good background. As stated, ABET accreditation is a key element also.
 
Some people consider aerospace engineering to be a subset of mechanical engineering, so that would be your best bet. From what I understand, a mechanical engineer can do a lot of jobs that an aerospace engineer can do, and more general mechanical engineering jobs.
 
Thanks to all of you
Bluechic92 what is a PE license? And also if you don't mind answering, what did you study?
 
Never mind I know now thanks
 
Awesome_Ale said:
Never mind I know now thanks

Sorry I didn't elaborate what a PE license is, I guess that's what you found out? The only reason I suggest that you aim for passing the Professional Enginee license exam is because I noticed some companies require it. It really depends on what you want to do with your engineering degree. You'll find that out once you start it.

I studied physics, but there was a point in my life where I was going to transfer out of my undergrad ( which has no engineering program) to a school that did for chemical engineering. That's the only reason I know any amount of stuff regarding engineering, but I do not know much. I too plan to apply for a Master's in engineering, but for EE. ABET crediting is only for undergrad and I think one needs a bachelors or equivalent work experience to sit for the exam for a PE license. That's why make sure the school you go to is ABET credited!

You are in high school. It's great that you are thinking so far ahead. I did that too when I started out undergrad, if only I continued to do that. Something I learned is to keep an open mind. Majoring in engineering will provide you with a variety of skills that you can use for all sorts of jobs . You will only know that if you seek out experiences (internships, research etc.) Good luck, I am sure you will do fine. Maybe after your first two years, you can check out places like Boeing and see if they take in people for summer internships.

Sorry if I sounded a bit harsh on the other thread you created. If you have winter break starting or celebrate any holidays , Happy _______! (for anyone reading this). .
 
In most US states, by law, a PE license is required for anyone to legally call themselves an engineer. This means in practical terms that to practice independently, as a consultant in any engineering area, you must have this state license. It has great significance in those areas that affect public safety directly (such a structural engineering), but less in areas more removed from direct public safety concerns. My engineers in industry work under what is called "the industrial exemption." The exemption usually says something like, provided that the company's chief engineer is registered, he can take responsibility for (cover for) all engineers working under him. This is common in manufacturing industries.
 

Similar threads

Courses Double degree in APhys and Materials Science Eng. or BS/MS in MechE?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Admissions Getting into a top tier Physics PhD Program with a Masters Degree
  • · Replies 50 ·
2
Replies
50
Views
11K
Online ME or AE Program for Active Duty Military Service Members
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Courses Masters in Civil Engineering with a Bachelor in general engineering
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Programs Go for a Master's or Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
6K
Other After an Engineering Physics BSc, can I enroll in a Physics MSc?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
What Engineering Path Should I Choose for My Career?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Most Fundamental or Important Class for Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
What's the best major between Physics & Chemistry for entering MS in Nuclear Engineering?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
Other Masters in Physics after working in Engineering
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K