Masters in EE/applied physics with CHE undergrad

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A rising junior studying chemical engineering with a minor in computer science is exploring options for graduate school, considering fields like electrical engineering (EE), applied physics, and materials science. The student is contemplating whether to switch to a minor in EE to enhance graduate school prospects or to remain in their current path. They note that while many applied physics programs do not require the physics GRE, it is often recommended. The student has research experience in nanomaterials, particularly graphene, and expresses a broad interest in areas such as space technology, electrochemistry, and solar technology. The discussion emphasizes the importance of aligning graduate program choices with specific research interests and highlights that different universities may cover similar topics across various departments.
cjh95
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I am currently a rising junior studying chemical engineering and minoring in computer science at a pretty strong state school. I struggled choosing my major within the engineering school as I was interested in nanotech, materials, chemistry, physics and computers. I ultimately picked CHE because I felt it encompassed the majority of my interests.

I have been doing a lot of research into what I want to study after undergraduate school and have essentially narrowed my interests down to continuing with CHE or studying either applied physics, EE, or materials science. I guess I'm interested in knowing if EE/applied physics are realistic possibilities for grad school given my undergraduate concentrations?

I still have time to pursue a minor in EE at this point (instead of CS) if it would improve my chances of acceptance to an EE masters program. The most drastic possibility would be to switch to EE now but that may be more hassle than it's worth if I can get into a graduate program without switching. Any feedback would be great!
 
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I can't say much since I am an undergraduate as well haha, but one thing to consider is that most applied physics programs require you or at least heavily recommend that you take the physics GRE when applying to their programs. Also, I am doing my undergraduate in engineering science, which could also be something to look into for graduate school. Engineering science/ engineering physics programs may also cover many of your interests depending on the university. Ultimately, as I understand it (which could be wrong) your choice of program will mainly depend on what it is exactly you want to study and or do research with in graduate school, and seeing what department and program it falls under. Some universities cover the same topics in different departments. What are your interests in EE/Applied physics?
 
Hey thanks for the reply. I have looked at many graduate applied physics programs and very few actually require the physics gre. However I'm sure, as you mentioned, it is recommended or beneficial to take it. Engineering science interests me too and could be an option for schools which don't offer applied physics. As far as my interests, I have helped out in a lab on campus in the ECE department which does nanomaterial research-specifically related to graphene. That certainly intrigues me but I am also very excited by anything space related, electrochemistry or solar technology. As I mentioned I don't really have just one area of interest.
 
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cjh95 said:
Hey thanks for the reply. I have looked at many graduate applied physics programs and very few actually require the physics gre. However I'm sure, as you mentioned, it is recommended or beneficial to take it. Engineering science interests me too and could be an option for schools which don't offer applied physics. As far as my interests, I have helped out in a lab on campus in the ECE department which does nanomaterial research-specifically related to graphene. That certainly intrigues me but I am also very excited by anything space related, electrochemistry or solar technology. As I mentioned I don't really have just one area of interest.
My apologies haha, seems I said that part about the physics GRE backwards..
 
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Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...

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