I am 27 with a systems engineering and interested in physics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the considerations and implications of pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Physics for someone with a background in systems engineering. Participants explore motivations, potential career paths, and the dedication required for academic pursuits in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to transition from systems engineering to physics, citing a strong interest in the subject and potential financial support for education in Germany.
  • Another participant questions the purpose of pursuing a physics degree, asking whether it is for personal enjoyment or career advancement, and advises caution against leaving a stable job for uncertain prospects in physics.
  • A different participant suggests researching job opportunities for physics graduates by examining relevant publications and considering whether the skills from engineering could suffice for desired roles in industry.
  • Concerns are raised about the commitment required for an academic career in physics, emphasizing the need for genuine passion for the subject.
  • One participant agrees with the emphasis on dedication for academia, reinforcing the importance of being deeply engaged with physics before pursuing it as a career.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the motivations for pursuing a physics degree and the implications for career paths. There is no consensus on whether the transition is advisable, as opinions vary on the value of the degree versus existing qualifications.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of personal interest and job market research, but there are no specific assumptions or limitations discussed regarding the educational system or job market conditions.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering a career change to physics, those with engineering backgrounds exploring interdisciplinary studies, and anyone interested in the academic versus industry pathways in STEM fields.

d3_neux
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I have been working about 4 years in the same company and got my engineering like 2 years ago, I am a good engineer but around 3 or 4 years ago I became very interested in physics and astrophysics. Maybe getting a BS in Germany because there is not very expensive, I am from Ecuador and I can get a government scholarship so I don't think money would be a problem.

What do you thing about this, can you give me some advice or tell me your story if you went through something similar?
 
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To what end? What do you want to do if you do get a BS in physics? Is this just for personal enjoyment, or do you want to work in some aspect of physics?

If you have a good job and some experience, think twice before you discard that to start over in an area where jobs may well be few and far between.
 
If you want to go into industry, then go to your local university library and get the physics magazines like Physics Today or whatever they are lately called. Get the issues that show recent graduates and where they got jobs. You can Google this, or your university librarian will be able to help you. Look at those jobs. If they look attractive, then it's a possible place to get a degree. If those jobs look boring or worse, keep reading until something does catch your eye.

Consider whether you could get the job you want with the degree you already have. Many of the skills in the two degrees are similar. Many jobs will require "a BSc in science or engineering" but will not specify as closely as physics. For example, computer programming is required for both. A lot of the math is the same in both.

If you want to go into academia it is a very different story. Be sure you are "in love" with the subject before you pursue that. It should not be just a hobby, but a passion. It should be something you would do massive amounts in your own time without prompting. Are you spending 20 hours per week on physics already? Maybe academia is for you. Spending 2 hours per week on it? Probably not. Still the advice is the same. See where recent graduates got positions, and see which ones you might enjoy.
 
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DEvens comment is good advice, particularly the part about the dedication required for academia.
 

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