Programs Job Options with Physics Degree: Discerning Majors

[E36_Sean_GC8]

Hey guys, first post on here! I've done a bit of reading and searching but wanted to ask specific questions.

I've got an odd idea on what I will be doing but am willing to work towards what I want.

I restarted school after a 6 year hiatus last year. Initially, I wanted to get an exercise science degree so that I could get to Physical Therapy school. Once realizing what actually happens if I don't make it to PT school (no, I really don't want to be a personal trainer), I searched for what I enjoy doing and how a major could relate to that best. Cars, racing, space, physics. These all excite me greater than anything other than the human body and basketball.

My idea: Take pre-reqs for PT school (3 bio classes, 3 chem classes and basic maths) then move on to a Physics degree in case I don't make it to grad school (I will though!).

My main questions:
Can I get a BS in physics and work with engineering? I'm thinking medical equipment and/or automotive industry.

Does a BA in physics work any differently?
I suppose I should include my pre-reqs if it helps any.

Biology 160
Biology 241, 242 (Anatomy and Physiology)
Math 141 (pre-calc 1) (142 summer term)
Chemistry 121
English 101

I want to attend Eastern Washington U, but am open to any other options as I don't really mind where I go but really want to finish my education.

I appreciate any and all responses, even the criticism!

 

[Choppy]

Can I get a BS in physics and work with engineering? I'm thinking medical equipment and/or automotive industry.

You *can* work in engineering with a physics degree, but it can be very difficult, particularly in a slower economy. If you really want to have engineering as a backup career, your best bet would be to enroll in an engineering program. Generally speaking, physics graduate school should be a serious possibility for you if you enroll as a physics undergraduate. Or maybe a desire to be a teacher. But physiotherapy as a primary with engineering as a backup - you're likely better off to study engineering.

Does a BA in physics work any differently?

You mean compared to a BSc? It depends on the school.

 

[E36_Sean_GC8]

You *can* work in engineering with a physics degree, but it can be very difficult, particularly in a slower economy. If you really want to have engineering as a backup career, your best bet would be to enroll in an engineering program. Generally speaking, physics graduate school should be a serious possibility for you if you enroll as a physics undergraduate. Or maybe a desire to be a teacher. But physiotherapy as a primary with engineering as a backup - you're likely better off to study engineering.You mean compared to a BSc? It depends on the school.

Awesome, thanks a ton for your input! It's hard to get a hold of an adviser at all.

I'm looking particularly at Eastern Wa U, that's why I asked about BS in physics.

http://www.ewu.edu/cstem/programs/physics