Can/Should I take graduate physics course if I'm a Aeronautic Engineer.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the possibility and implications of transitioning from a mechanical engineering background to pursuing graduate studies in physics. Participants explore the challenges and considerations involved in this potential shift, particularly in relation to specific interests in cosmology, high energy physics, and astrophysics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a strong interest in physics, particularly in areas like dark matter and black holes, and questions the feasibility of changing fields after obtaining a mechanical engineering degree.
  • Another participant suggests that the lack of overlap between mechanical engineering and upper-level physics coursework may make it challenging to gain admission to a physics graduate program.
  • The first participant considers the potential impact of achieving a high score on the GRE-Physics test as a means to strengthen their application for graduate studies in physics.
  • There is a personal reflection on the balance between pursuing a passion for physics versus continuing in engineering, with the participant feeling torn between their interests.
  • One participant advises that keeping physics as a hobby could be beneficial, implying that it may not be necessary to abandon engineering entirely.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the challenges of transitioning from engineering to physics, but there are differing opinions on the best approach to take regarding education and career paths. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best course of action for the original poster.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions about the necessary qualifications for graduate physics programs and the potential value of standardized test scores. The discussion does not resolve the complexities of balancing interests in engineering and physics.

sigmatjj84
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I am about to graduate as a mechanical engineer this coming August. I wish to further my study in physics. I wonder is it possible to change field since what I am about to obtain is a bachelor degree in engineering?

I am really interested in physics but back then I had no choice. I do not want to regret in the future so I decided to make my own choice now.

My interest lie at the intersection of cosmology, high energy physics and astrophysics. I am interested in dark matter, black hole and especially TOE.

I am troubled. I did not took a formal taught course in physics or cosmology except some self studies.I always think that passion is enough when dealing with things like these (studies). Is it?

Well, so far I have tried to consult many professors from various university but only one of them reply me. I wonder why? Anyone can help me with this?

Thanks
 
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Professors get a lot of e-mails from people they don't know. It's not unreasonable to expect them to respond only to those student enquiries which seem to come from promising candidates.

With a background in mechanical engineering it will be extremely difficult to persuade someone to take you on as a physics graduate student. There is not a lot of overlap between upper-year mechanical engineering coursework and upper-level physics coursework. Perhaps you could consider taking a year or two of upper-level physics after you earn your engineering degree.
 
First of all, thank you for replying me.

hmmm...ya, I agree. I can't expect them to reply to all e-mails. But...well, never mind.

I plan to take GRE test. I wonder if an excellent result in GRE-Physics test is persuasive enough?

If you were me, would you choose your interest or stick with engineering? Well, I know engineering uses just as much physics but it's not the field I'm fond of. But I do enjoy inventing new things. You can say that engineering is my second interest.

I did consider the possibility of continue taking eng. and take physics as a part time hobby. But I really don't think I have enough time to do that especially if I want to be successful in that area. You know what i mean?

Actually I have made up my mind (85%) to take physics but sometimes the remaining 15% still troubling me. sigh...
 
if you keep it as a hobby,i think you will never loss.
 

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