Delimma: Need advice from industry's point of view

[Parsian]

Hi,

I am currently completing my degree in Applied Physics (starting 4th year) with the hope to work in Semi Conductors industry and computer world (research or engineering or both). My school is offering the following courses for my degree:

http://students.sfu.ca/calendar/physics/appld_phys_hon.html

I am not planning to apply for Honours, but do plan to take the course loads for the knowledge. The program gives me the option to also take followings in addition to Semi Conductor Physics, Solid State Physics, Modern Optics Physics, Electromagnetic Waves:

ENSC 426: High Freq. Electronics; ENSC 495: Introduction to Microelectronic Fabrication; ENSC 330: Material Science;

My school also does offer an Engineering Minor in Computer and Electronics Design:
http://students.sfu.ca/calendar/engineering_science/computer_electr_design_min.html

While at it, here is what a MAJOR in Electronic Engineering requires: (in short, i have to do 5 extra first year easy class stuff + mandatory co-op for atleast 3 semesters.)
http://students.sfu.ca/calendar/engineering_science/ensc_maj_elec_eng_option.html

My delimma:

At the moment, I am 25 years old. If I complete the minor, I will be graduating in Dec of 2013. If I dont, I will graduate in Dec of 2012 in age of 26.

I personally like to do the minor simply because it could go well with my research and love for electronics and computers. But the question is, will it give me any edge when it comes to getting a job? Can i get a job as an engineer?

On the other hand, if I do the Major in Engineering as well (Double Major in Applied Physics and Electronic Engineering), I will be 28 by the time I have graduated due to mandatory 1 year long co-op. The question is, Will I have a better chance compare to minor? Will my age prevent me the job?

I guess, is it worth the Major or Minor or should I just stick with Applied Physics?


Thanks in advance

 

[Parsian]

Anybody? :(

 

[lisab]

In my view, if you want to work as an engineer, you're going to have a hard time unless you have an engineering degree.

Think of your question this way: do you want to be 28 and have an engineering degree, or do you want to be 28 without an engineering degree?

Your age won't be a big factor, I think, especially with the co-op.

 

[chroot]

There are jobs in the semiconductor industry for applied physicists, mainly in technology development. These people push the designs of transistors and other circuit elements, making them smaller and perform better. The job never ends, because each new process node (feature shrink) requires the whole process to be done over again.

That said, there are probably 100 EEs for every applied physicist in large semiconductor companies. You'll find it much easier to get a job with an EE degree, especially a bachelor's. All of the technology development people I've known have had graduate degrees.

- Warren

 

[Matrix0]

for any advice!

As a scientist in the field of applied physics, my advice would be to carefully consider your career goals and what you want to achieve in the industry. It is important to have a strong understanding of the specific skills and knowledge that are in demand in the semi-conductor and computer industry, as well as the job market in your area. Based on that, you can make an informed decision about whether a major or minor in electronic engineering would be beneficial for you.

In general, having a diverse skill set and knowledge base can make you a more competitive candidate for jobs in the industry. However, it is also important to consider the time and effort that will be required to complete a double major or minor, and whether that will fit into your long-term career plans.

Additionally, your age should not be a deterrent in pursuing your education and career goals. Employers value experience and a strong understanding of the field, and your age could potentially work in your favor. Ultimately, it is important to prioritize your own personal and professional development and make a decision that aligns with your goals and interests.