Can Electrical Engineers Transition to Physics for Graduate Studies?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the possibility of transitioning from an electrical engineering undergraduate program to a graduate program in physics. Participants explore various options and challenges related to this potential shift, including course selection, university policies, and personal circumstances.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to switch from electrical engineering to physics for graduate studies, indicating a strong interest in physics.
  • Another participant suggests switching majors now rather than waiting for graduate school, noting that many credits could be transferred.
  • One participant states that switching majors is not possible at their university, which raises concerns about the feasibility of the transition.
  • A suggestion is made to take as many physics courses as possible to build a relevant background for graduate studies.
  • Another participant proposes considering engineering physics as an alternative if a major change is not feasible.
  • It is mentioned that some students from different undergraduate majors, such as Optical Science, have successfully transitioned to physics graduate programs, although they may need to take additional undergraduate courses.
  • One participant inquires about the possibility of transferring to another university, questioning the constraints that prevent such a move.
  • The original poster shares that they study at a prestigious university in Bangladesh and face parental restrictions against changing their major or university, expressing uncertainty about their graduate school prospects.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of switching majors and the potential for pursuing physics in graduate studies. There is no consensus on the best course of action, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the original poster's situation.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations based on university policies, personal circumstances, and the potential need for additional coursework to meet graduate program requirements.

IbrahimMisbah
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So I want to be a physicist!

Hi there...
So, here is my problem..I didn't think my way through and got enrolled in an electrical engineering program.I am in my 2nd yr now.It's not like I don't like Electrical Engineering..It's okay but I am finding my interest getting always hooked up with Physics.So, I was just wondering whether it's possible to make a switch to mainstream physics in graduate studies.

your help will be appreciated
Thanks
ims
 
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If you're still in your 2nd year, why don't switch major right now instead of waiting till grad school ? many of your credits would be transferred and your graduation would be delayed by probably a maximum of one year. Of course whether that is possible or not depends on which country are you living in. But if it is allowed, it would be much better than doing it in grad school
 


Sorry...the switching is not possible...not at my university.
 


Just take as many Physics courses as possible then. Try cramming in classes like upper level Mechanics, Quantum and E&M into your schedule.
 


If you can change the engineering part then I suggest engineering physics. If not go to a CC and start over since you can't change your major, but that's just me not knowing what your situation is.
 


yes, several of my classmates in grad school came from slightly different majors like Optical Science etc. You might be required to take some undegrad classes during grad program. But to apply to grad program, you will need to pass GRE-Physics which already implies pretty much background. Part of that will be covered while getting degree of EE.
 


IbrahimMisbah said:
Sorry...the switching is not possible...not at my university.

Is transferring to another university out of the question? If so, why?
 


Dembadon said:
Is transferring to another university out of the question? If so, why?


I study at Dhaka university in Bangladesh.It's the best university in the country.My parents wouldn't allow me to change university or subject...So, I am kind of stuck!...I would love to hear about the grad possibility though.I understand that it's going to be hard.But it's possible right?
 

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