Maths PhD after majoring in mechanical engineering

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the feasibility of pursuing a PhD in Mathematics after majoring in Mechanical Engineering. Participants explore the necessary preparations, experiences of others who have made similar transitions, and the academic requirements involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the possibility of transitioning from Mechanical Engineering to a Mathematics PhD, expressing a strong interest in mathematics.
  • Another participant suggests that significant additional undergraduate coursework may be necessary to prepare for graduate-level mathematics, indicating a potential time commitment of one to two extra years.
  • A participant mentions Raoul Bott, a notable mathematician with an engineering background, as an example of someone who successfully transitioned from engineering to mathematics.
  • It is noted by another participant that individuals with engineering degrees have successfully pursued PhDs in applied mathematics and statistics, implying that such transitions are indeed possible.
  • A participant shares their professor's experience of moving from civil engineering to mathematics, highlighting the need for self-study and preparation for entrance examinations in algebra and analysis.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that transitioning from an engineering background to a PhD in Mathematics is possible, though there are differing views on the extent of preparation required and the experiences of those who have made similar transitions.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the necessity of additional coursework and self-study, but specifics on the required mathematics classes and the nature of the entrance examinations remain unresolved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering a PhD in Mathematics after an engineering undergraduate degree, as well as those interested in the academic pathways and requirements for such transitions.

anillatoo
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Is that possible? Because I am much more interested to do a PhD in Mathematics than Mechanical Engineering...
 
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You will need to complete a lot of undergrad hours to prepare yourself for the graduate level course work. So be prepared for about a extra year or 2.

Not sure what math you took as a ME but generally it is not the classes you need for grad level math.
 
I don't know how to answer your question, but I thought that the fact that Raoul Bott, who was one of the greatest mathematicians of the 20th century, got degrees in engineering first would be an interesting tidbit. It was electrical engineering though...
 
To the OP,

I knew someone who had studied engineering for his undergraduate degree who have subsequently pursued a PhD in applied math, and I also know someone who finished her degree in engineering and subsequently pursued a PhD in statistics.

So the short answer is yes, it is possible. It would help if you have pursued at least a minor in math, though, to prepare for further graduate studies.
 
My real analysis professor obtained his B.S. in civil engineering and went to graduate school for math instead. He said he had to self study a lot. Also, there were examinations in algebra and analysis to get in, so he self studied to get good marks in these exams. Do note: he is from Iran so things are most likely different there.
 

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