Can I Become a Physicists with a B.Eng?

  • Thread starter Thread starter final_arrow3
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Physicists
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential career paths available to individuals with a Bachelor's of Engineering (B.Eng) or a Bachelor of Science in Physics (B.Sci), particularly regarding the feasibility of pursuing advanced degrees in physics or engineering. Participants explore the implications of transitioning between these fields and the preparation required for graduate studies.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the possibility of pursuing a doctorate or master's in physics after completing a B.Eng, expressing uncertainty about career options and the experiences of others who have made similar transitions.
  • Another participant asks if a B.Sci in Physics would allow for a transition to engineering through a master's program, indicating interest in the reverse pathway.
  • Some participants note that individuals transitioning between physics and engineering often face challenges, as the educational background from one discipline may not fully prepare them for the other, requiring additional coursework.
  • Concerns are raised about job security with a physics degree, with one participant expressing a desire to keep options open while pursuing their interest in physics.
  • A later reply mentions that transitioning to physics graduate school from engineering would likely necessitate completing core physics undergraduate courses as leveling courses.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that transitioning between physics and engineering is possible but may require additional preparation. However, there is no consensus on the specifics of job security or the adequacy of one degree in preparing for the other.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of specific details on the required coursework for transitioning between degrees and the varying experiences of individuals in similar situations.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering a career in physics or engineering, students exploring their educational options, and those interested in the implications of transitioning between these fields.

final_arrow3
Messages
9
Reaction score
0
Hi everyone,

I'm trying to figure out a few possible career options right now. If I decided to complete a Bachelor's of Engineering, would I still be able to pursue a doctorate or master's in physics and follow a physics oriented career path? I know of people who have taken master's of engineering and completed their doctorate in physics but I don't know their undergraduate history. I'm basically very undecided right now on what career path I want to take and I'd like to know what kind of options I have. Does anyone have any experience with this kind of transfer?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Oh and vice versa: does anyone know if I can become an engineer if I get a B.Sci in Physics and then decide to get a masters of engineering?
 
I've seen people go both ways; from physics to engineering and from engineering to physics. But all of them ended up having to play catch-up; the one degree only partially prepared them for the other. Most engineers don't take anywhere near enough physics courses to prepare them for physics graduate school.
 
Ok thank you. I guess what I'm worried about is the job security with a physics degree. I would really love to physics but I want to keep my back up options really open.
 
You would have to make up basically the core physics undergrad as leveling courses.
 

Similar threads

Studying Should I pursue a masters degree after 4.5 years working in IT?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Can I pursue an MS in astrophysics with a BS in studio art?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Other Masters in Physics after working in Engineering
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Other Leveraging engineering B.E. after pivoting to Physics - impossible?
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
Particle physicist Master's thesis question
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Programs How Can I Transition from Physics to a Career in Medical Physics?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
6K
Programs Study in Canada or the UK to become a physicist?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Other How can I fill course requirements for Physics Master's program?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Other How to become an amateur physicist
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Programs Radiation Therapist to Medical Dosimetrist or Physicist
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K