Graduate School Electrical Engineering with a BS in Math

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of applying to a graduate program in Electrical Engineering (EE) with a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mathematics and one semester remaining in a BS in EE. Participants explore the implications of taking a job before completing the undergraduate degree and the potential impact on graduate school applications.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about the timing of job acceptance and its impact on graduate school applications, specifically regarding having one semester left in EE.
  • Another participant suggests that as long as the missing semester does not prevent graduation, the applicant should be eligible for EE graduate programs.
  • A third participant agrees with the previous point and emphasizes the importance of completing the last semester, suggesting negotiation with the potential employer.
  • The original poster highlights the difficulty of the decision due to family responsibilities and the potential need to relocate, which could complicate degree completion requirements at different universities.
  • A later reply mentions a friend's successful transition from a math major to a master's program in EE, indicating that such pathways are possible.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that having one semester left in EE should not disqualify the applicant from graduate programs, but there is no consensus on the best course of action regarding job acceptance and degree completion.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the potential need for additional undergraduate credits at the new institution if the job requires relocation, which may affect the timeline for applying to graduate school.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering dual degrees in mathematics and engineering, individuals exploring graduate school applications in engineering fields, and those weighing job opportunities against educational commitments.

srl17
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My long range educational goal is to complete a PhD program in Electrical Engineering. I am currently enrolled in a dual degree program to get a BS in Math completed in the Spring and my BS in EE completed in the Fall of 2013. There is a specific federal engineering job I was interested in pursuing after I got done with my undergrad degrees. I planned on pursuing graduate education part time after a few years in the industry.

There aren't always job openings but it is pretty much a walk on but I would have to start right after I finish the BS in Math in April and that would leave 1 semester left for my undergrad EE degree. If I take the job would there be any difficulty in applying to a graduate EE program with a BS in math and 1 semester left on a BS in EE.

Any opinions?
Thanks!
 
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Well, if missing one semester of EE doesn't prevent you're entire graduation, then you should be good to go to EE graduate programs with your n - 1 semesters of EE studies. Your work experience will support your application to the graduate program, if the work is related to the field.
 
I agree with Internet Human. It shouldn't affect your application at all. If there is some way you can finish that last semester, maybe negotiate with your new job or something, you should do it. You're so close!
 
I know, it's so close, that is what makes this potential decision so tough. I'd be only one semester from completing both, but with a wife and kid it's also hard to turn down a great salary with great benefits.

If I take the job I'd have to relocate, which means transferring and from my understanding most Universities require at least 25-30 credits from that school to grant a degree so that would mean 2 more EE undergrad semesters. I'd rather just apply straight to EE grad when the time comes. Hopefully I can talk them into waiting for me 14 months instead of 8 months.

My thinking was inline with both your comments, but I appreciate the feedback as it makes me feel more comfortable if I can't get them to agree to wait till December of next year.
 
I know a friend who did a major in math and a minor in physics, she's doing her masters in electrical engineering now focusing on integrated nano-electronics.
 

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