Can a BS in chemistry do whatever a BS in physics does?

[thetaobums]

I'm solely talking about recent grads in these two fields. The job market for chemists is pretty dismal; I'd imagine it's more true for physicists, is it not? But it seems to me the skills learned under these two degrees are quite similar...I mean any physics BS can work as a labrat and any chemist BS can do calculations designing fuelcells.

 

[sjb-2812]

Well, for instance, could a graduate in physics interpret NMRs, or propose retrosynthetic schemes for molecules?

I'm sure there is a lot of overlap in terms of general transferables, but there is also likely to be work that only chemistry or physics grads will have enough of a handle on to be reasonably successful in

 

[chill_factor]

the skillsets are quite different. chemists think differently from physicists, even physical chemists and condensed matter physicists think very differently about the same problem. they don't even think about silicon the same way, so why would they think of anything else the same way?

the JOB market is OK for BS level chemists. it wasn't hard to get an analytical tech position. its boring and the pay is low but its work. the high paying job market requires some sort of advanced degree, management experience, or sales records. For the grad level, I think specialization matters greatly.

 

[garbiiiiis]

By saying the pay is low what do you mean?
Could you give us a range of what to expect? I assume someone in your case should make more then someone with a lib. Arts. Or buss. Mjor.?

 

[Matrix0]

I understand your concern about the job market for recent graduates in both chemistry and physics. It is true that the job market for chemists may be more challenging compared to physicists, but that does not mean that a BS in chemistry cannot do what a BS in physics does.

While there may be some overlap in the skills learned under these two degrees, they are not exactly the same. Chemistry and physics are two distinct fields with their own set of theories, concepts, and techniques. A BS in chemistry may have a strong foundation in chemical reactions, molecular structures, and analytical techniques, while a BS in physics may have a strong understanding of mechanics, electricity, and thermodynamics. These are different skill sets that are essential for different types of work.

It is true that a chemist with a BS degree can work as a lab technician, just as a physicist with a BS degree can work in a laboratory setting. However, their roles and responsibilities may differ based on their specific training and knowledge. For example, a lab technician in a chemistry lab may be responsible for conducting experiments, analyzing data, and preparing solutions, while a lab technician in a physics lab may be responsible for assembling and maintaining equipment, conducting experiments, and analyzing data using mathematical models.

Similarly, a chemist with a BS degree may have the skills to design fuel cells, but a physicist with a BS degree may have a deeper understanding of the underlying principles and theories behind their functioning. This may give them an advantage in certain job roles, such as research and development or product design.

In conclusion, while there may be some overlap in the skills learned under a BS in chemistry and a BS in physics, they are two distinct fields with their own unique set of skills and knowledge. A BS in chemistry may have the ability to do certain tasks that a BS in physics can do, and vice versa, but they each have their own strengths and areas of expertise. It is important for recent graduates to leverage their specific training and knowledge to find the best fit for their career goals in the job market.