Engineering physics: Which specialization? Bio-phys vs applied-phys

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the choice of specialization within an Engineering Physics degree, specifically between biophysics and applied physics. Participants explore the implications of each option in terms of career prospects, personal interests, and academic pathways.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a preference for applied physics due to its perceived flexibility compared to biophysics.
  • Another participant questions the restrictions associated with biophysics and seeks clarification on potential career paths within that field.
  • A later reply suggests that a master's in biophysics often leads to a residency in a hospital, particularly in oncology, which may not align with all participants' career aspirations.
  • There is an inquiry about the employment landscape in nanotechnology, including opportunities and entry challenges.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on which specialization is preferable, as differing views on the flexibility and career implications of biophysics versus applied physics are presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the employment outcomes of biophysics and the specifics of its academic requirements, indicating a need for more information on these topics.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering specializations in engineering physics, particularly those weighing options between biophysics and applied physics, as well as individuals interested in emerging fields like nanotechnology.

Nikitin
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Hi! The time has come to choose the specialization of my EP degree, and for this occasion I hope it's OK to make a very self-centred thread :p. Here's what I study: http://www.ntnu.edu/studies/mtfyma. The 3 choices are: math, applied physics and biophysics.

I don't think I want to specialize in mathematics (even though I find it much easier than physics), but rather some form of phyiscs. So I guess it's between biology or more technical stuff.

Under both biophysics and applied physics I can choose pretty much any concentration I want, but my problem is that I have very little knowledge of upper-level physics or what it's like. I am frankly overwhelmed by the options and unable to make a decision. So could you guys help me choose what I should specialize in?

Stuff I enjoy/am interested in:

* Technology. I have always been fascinated by the technological progress of humanity, and so this is definitely something I want to be a part of.

* Space exploration. A very interesting field - very adventurous and fascinating. I enjoy the novelty of exploration.

* How the brain works. I've always wanted to know more about it, and would be interested to see if it's possible to amplify its workings.

* Evolution. I've always found it very interesting and fundamental, and think it's cool how it can be used to optimize processes in computer science.

* Cutting-edge technology. I like ambitious goals and unexplored territory.

* Working internationally. Anywhere else than Norway.

My school is (probably) comparable to caltech or similarly strict US engineering schools when it comes to difficulty and workload, and I aim at a decent GPA (at least 3.5) when I graduate.

1) Does this mean I can get onto a graduate program in the USA in one of the fields above?
2) Is a graduate program important or more trouble than its worth if I want to develop technology?
3) How about employment? Is biophysics risky in this regard?
4) What other relevant cutting edge fields are there than the ones I listed?

Thanks for any reply :)
 
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Unless you are certain about biophysics, I would choose applied physics because it is less restrictive. It will allow you more freedom to explore your options.
 
How is it restricted? And what would my options be with biophysics?

How is the employment situation? The last thing I would want is end up as a hospital engineer or something..
 
It looks like that is a master's program, correct? With a master's in Bio-physics, usually the purpose is to begin a 2-3 year residency at a hospital in order to be qualified to work in the oncology department of a hospital. At least, that is mostly what I have seen when I have researched biomedical physics. It doesn't seem like a bad way to go, if you would like that.
 
Does anybody know about nanotechnology?

Is the field good for employment and are there many opportunities? Is it hard to get in?
 
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