Engineering as a pathway into Physics?

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The discussion centers on the challenges faced by a mechanical engineering (ME) student who has developed a strong interest in physics but is concerned about the quality of their current school's physics program. The student is confident in their engineering education and believes it will facilitate applications to prestigious graduate programs like those at Michigan and MIT. However, they question whether a BS in ME would provide a viable pathway into graduate studies in physics, given their limited formal physics background. They are considering completing their ME degree and then pursuing a physics undergraduate program at a more reputable institution, where they anticipate being able to transfer credits and complete the degree in about two years. The conversation seeks advice on the feasibility of transitioning from mechanical engineering to physics at the graduate level.
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I'm currently an ME student. I attend the best school I could get into and can afford. The engineering department here is great. I'm positive I'll be able to apply to schools like Michigan and MIT with the education I'll get. However, I've fallen in love with Physics. Unfortunately, my school doesn't have a very good Physics program. I practically taught myself freshman and sophomore Physics, which is great for my engineering degree, but would be terrible for a major in Physics. I'm confident in my ability to get through, but the degree will mean nothing to the physics world coming from this school.

So, I've started to wonder, will my BS in ME be a good springboard into Physics? I mean to ask, does an ME have any chance of doing grad work in Physics? Or is my best bet to finish my degree, and use that to get into a Physics undergrad program at a reputable school? With the credits I would be able to transfer, it's likely that a BS in Physics would only take me 2 years (including summers).

Thanks for any input.
 
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