How to go from being a physicist to be a mechanical engineer?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the transition from being a physicist to becoming a mechanical engineer. Participants explore the feasibility of this career shift, the necessary educational requirements, and the potential benefits of pursuing a mechanical engineering degree.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the ease of transitioning from physics to mechanical engineering and seeks advice on required courses and the overall viability of this choice.
  • Another participant suggests that a physics background may facilitate the transition due to overlapping skills and prior coursework, indicating that it might be easier than starting from scratch.
  • A different viewpoint asserts that pursuing a master's degree in mechanical engineering and obtaining certification could enhance job prospects, particularly in companies that require certified engineers.
  • Some participants highlight that there are numerous job opportunities available for physics graduates, emphasizing that significant achievements can be made even without advanced degrees in engineering.
  • One participant shares personal experience, noting that many engineers have successfully transitioned from physics by simply applying for engineering positions, stressing the importance of demonstrating passion during interviews.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on whether the engineering coworkers mentioned were physicists, indicating a desire for more specific examples of successful transitions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of opinions regarding the transition from physics to mechanical engineering. While some believe it is a good choice with a clear path, others emphasize the potential for successful careers with a physics degree alone. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to making this transition.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various educational paths and job opportunities without reaching a consensus on the most effective strategy for transitioning from physics to mechanical engineering. The discussion reflects differing perspectives on the value of a physics degree in engineering roles.

bad_physicist
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hello all, I am a new here. I just graduated as a physicist. I know that my bachelor on physics will not give me a good job, I am thinking to go from being physicist to be a mechanical engineer. Is that easy? does anyone tried that? what courses do I have to take? and the most important, is this a good choice?

any opinion is appreciated, thank you all
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Welcome to PF.
Of course you realize you have to do a course in mechanical engineering.
The college course usually has a physics requirement which you have already passed, and you already have a lot of the skills you need, so it will be easier for you than starting fresh.

I did it in the other direction - but before finishing the engineering degree.
 
bad_physicist said:
hello all, I am a new here. I just graduated as a physicist. I know that my bachelor on physics will not give me a good job, I am thinking to go from being physicist to be a mechanical engineer. Is that easy? does anyone tried that? what courses do I have to take? and the most important, is this a good choice?

any opinion is appreciated, thank you all

Yes, this is a good choice. Especially, if you want a highly salaried job. You may take master degree in mechanical engineering. Also you may give exams for certification in mechanical engineering. Because many companies request certified engineers.
 
Thank you all

anjelin said:
You may take master degree in mechanical engineering.certified .

I liked this idea
 
There are many amazing jobs for physics Bachelors. Most of them won't be about inventing the new revolutionizing theory of everything, but finding something amazing with "just a physics bachelors" is not at all impossible.
 
In the last 35 years I've had many engineering coworkers who made the transition simply by applying for an engineering job. Just be ready in the interview to give them good reason to believe that you have a high interest and passion for the type of work they want you to do.
 
Wayn3 said:
There are many amazing jobs for physics Bachelors. Most of them won't be about inventing the new revolutionizing theory of everything, but finding something amazing with "just a physics bachelors" is not at all impossible.

Thank you for the motivation you just give:smile:. But do you have on your mind any of such amazing things that physicists may find :confused:?
 
Pkruse said:
In the last 35 years I've had many engineering coworkers who made the transition simply by applying for an engineering job. Just be ready in the interview to give them good reason to believe that you have a high interest and passion for the type of work they want you to do.


You mean physicists coworkers?

thank you for your advice
 
I mean people employed as engineers, but with a physics education.
 
  • #10
:cool:cooooooooooool:cool:
 

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