Programs Double Degree: Is It Worth the 6 Year Commitment?

  • Thread starter Thread starter AEharley
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Degree
AI Thread Summary
Considering a double degree in physics and aerospace engineering in Australia, which takes six years, raises questions about its value. While some argue that six years is a reasonable investment for such a specialized program, others suggest that a major in engineering with a minor in physics might be more practical, especially for financial reasons. The discussion emphasizes the importance of balancing personal satisfaction with financial outcomes. Engaging in research opportunities across both fields can enhance employability and graduate school prospects. Ultimately, the decision should reflect individual interests in physics versus the desire for a quicker, more financially rewarding path in engineering.
AEharley
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
I'm considering a double degree in physics and aerospace engineering. This double degree in Australia (where I live) would take 6 years. Is it worth it? Or is six years just too long to be studying?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
AEharley said:
I'm considering a double degree in physics and aerospace engineering. This double degree in Australia (where I live) would take 6 years. Is it worth it? Or is six years just too long to be studying?

My double major in physics and electrical engineering took longer than that and I'm currently in the running for some interesting jobs. Six years isn't that long of a time to be studying for a program like that (I know some people will disagree, but people who can do double majors in physics and engineering in the standard 4 years are rare, period). If you're going to do this, take advantage of the resources in both departments and see if you can get involved in research with both departments (or something that straddles the expertise of both, plasma or electric propulsion is a common one). This will make you a strong candidate for grad school or employment.
 
AEharley said:
I'm considering a double degree in physics and aerospace engineering. This double degree in Australia (where I live) would take 6 years. Is it worth it? Or is six years just too long to be studying?

In general, engineering hits your wallet better than physics.

That being said, A major in engineering with a minor in physics might be best.

When you say..."is it worth it?". Do you mean financially or self satisfaction?

That's always a battle you will fight. Cash is king...but so is feeling good about yourself. Most people confuse the two as being the same.

If you love physics that much go for the double major. If your more interested in making money faster and spending less on your degree(s), maybe do the engineering major/phyics minor I mention above. Or maybe even focus on engineering totally and throw the occasional extra physics class in there to see how it goes...then go from there.
 
Bit Britain-specific but I was wondering, what's the best path to take for A-Levels out of the following (I know Y10 seems a bit early to be thinking about A-levels, but my choice will impact what I do this year/ in y11) I (almost) definitely want to do physics at University - so keep that in mind... The subjects that I'm almost definitely going to take are Maths, Further Maths and Physics, and I'm taking a fast track programme which means that I'll be taking AS computer science at the end...
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...
I graduated with a BSc in Physics in 2020. Since there were limited opportunities in my country (mostly teaching), I decided to improve my programming skills and began working in IT, first as a software engineer and later as a quality assurance engineer, where I’ve now spent about 3 years. While this career path has provided financial stability, I’ve realized that my excitement and passion aren’t really there, unlike what I felt when studying or doing research in physics. Working in IT...
Back
Top