Moving from Physics (BA) to Engineering (ME)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on transitioning from a Bachelor of Arts in Physics to a graduate program in engineering. Participants explore the challenges of selecting an engineering discipline and seek guidance on preparatory courses or resources to aid in their decision-making process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about which engineering field to pursue and seeks an introductory course that covers various engineering disciplines.
  • Another participant suggests that a formal course may not be necessary and recommends exploring online resources and speaking with professionals to gain insights into different engineering fields.
  • A participant shares their experience of initially being interested in materials science but changing their mind after hands-on research, indicating the importance of practical experience in decision-making.
  • One participant inquires about the application process for engineering programs without a formal engineering background.
  • A different participant mentions their application to the electrical engineering department and highlights the potential advantage of relevant work experience in a lab.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the necessity of a formal introductory course in engineering, with differing opinions on the value of academic versus experiential learning.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the variability in personal interests and experiences, which may influence the decision-making process regarding engineering disciplines.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering a transition from physics to engineering, particularly those seeking guidance on program selection and preparatory resources.

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I just graduated with a BA in Physics. Next year (Fall 2010) I want to start graduate school for engineering. However, I'm not sure what type of engineering I want to get a degree in (though I do know that I'm not interested in material science).

I'm currently living in Atlanta, and I figured that I would take something like Engineering 101 and then decide where to apply. Unfortunately, I don't seem to know enough about engineering to even find an engineering 101 course. As in, they're not called engineering 101.

I'm looking for an overview to engineering: hopefully something similar to Psych 101 in that it touches briefly on just about everything in the field. What would a course like that be called?

Thank you!
 
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A course surveying the different engineering fields is not necessary. There are plenty of resources available to you outside of academia. Why don't you try searching online, or speaking with some engineers, students or advisors about the nature of their work? What field of physics most interests you? You could look at course descriptions for each field at the university you plan to attend. This should give you an idea of what your studies will be like.

http://stats.bls.gov/oco/ocos027.htm
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Wow. That list of engineering disciplines is perfect. Thank you so much.

I've spoken to quite a few engineers, and it sounds like I'd like aerospace, mechanical, civil, though there are others that may be great as well.

Now that you mention it, a course probably wouldn't help all that much: from taking first year physics and then chemistry, I thought I wanted to be a materials scientist hands-down. Then I did carbon nanotube research in a materials scienc lab for a year and changed my mind completely.

Do you have any advice for applying to engineering program without any formal engineering background?
 
i also would like to know
 
Hey, creepypasta!
I just finished applying to the electrical engineering department at GA Tech. Dunno if I got in yet, but I think it for sure helps that I got a part-time job this year in one of their labs.
Good luck!
 

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