Becoming an All-Rounder: Taking Multiple Fields of Study

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the pursuit of a broad education in STEM fields, particularly focusing on the integration of mathematics, physics, chemistry, and various engineering disciplines. Participants explore the feasibility of studying multiple fields simultaneously and the nature of different academic programs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express a desire to gain knowledge across multiple disciplines, including mathematics, physics, and chemistry.
  • There is a suggestion that mechanical engineering primarily focuses on mechanics, raising questions about the breadth of topics covered in various engineering branches.
  • One participant proposes that engineering physics could be a suitable option for those wanting a balanced education across these fields.
  • Another participant notes that while engineering physics may cover a range of topics, it might not include extensive chemistry beyond introductory levels.
  • Concerns are raised about the possibility of studying multiple fields like electrical engineering, chemical engineering, and computer science simultaneously.
  • Participants discuss the importance of aligning educational choices with future career goals.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the value of a broad education in STEM but express differing views on the feasibility and structure of programs that allow for such breadth. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to achieving an all-rounder education.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention specific programs and their focus, but there are limitations in terms of geographic applicability and the depth of chemistry included in certain engineering programs. The discussion also reflects varying educational systems and requirements across countries.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a broad education in STEM fields, particularly those interested in the intersections of mathematics, physics, chemistry, and engineering disciplines.

Raghav Gupta
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I like getting all knowledge and also like being an all rounder.
I like Maths, physics and chemistry.
I think in mechanical engineering only mechanics is taught.
In which branch all topics are taught?
Or can one choose various fields like elec engineering, chemical engineering, computer science side by side?
 
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A physics major is going to take the full calculus sequence, along with at least differential equations and linear algebra. They will also typically take a couple semesters of general chemistry.

A chemistry major will take at least an introductory physics sequence.

Most engineering students will have to take at least the introductory physics sequence. A mechanical engineering major would typically take some upper level classical mechanics, an electrical engineering major is likely to take upper level E&M etc.

A chemical engineering major will take the introductory physics sequence, a fair amount of math, and a lot of chemistry. That's something worth considering.

Your question seems oriented toward engineering, but something like physical chemistry is worth considering too. It's basically the physics of chemical processes. It involves much more than just classical mechanics.
 
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Raghav Gupta said:
I like getting all knowledge and also like being an all rounder.
I like Maths, physics and chemistry.
I think in mechanical engineering only mechanics is taught.
In which branch all topics are taught?
Or can one choose various fields like elec engineering, chemical engineering, computer science side by side?

Engineering physics is probably what you're looking for, an example program is UWisconsin Madison's Applied Math, Physics, and Engineering degree:

https://www.math.wisc.edu/amep

Programs like this essentially balances all of the above disciplines to give a generalized education, might be worth looking into.
 
Raghav Gupta said:
I like getting all knowledge and also like being an all rounder.
I like Maths, physics and chemistry.
I think in mechanical engineering only mechanics is taught.
In which branch all topics are taught?
Or can one choose various fields like elec engineering, chemical engineering, computer science side by side?
At which country are you planning to do your undergraduate education ?
 
montadhar said:
At which country are you planning to do your undergraduate education ?
In India
@clope023 I think that program is for US citizens?
@QuantumCurt which branch you have taken?
 
I'm a physics/math double major.

Engineering physics may be a very good option. Although it isn't necessarily going to contain any chemistry beyond general chemistry.
 
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You take a little bit of everything with any stem major, I think its better to figure out what you want to do after school and try to get skills more geared toward that eventual goal.
 
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