MS Eng without BS Eng: Is it Possible?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of pursuing a Master's degree in engineering for individuals with a Bachelor's degree in chemistry, particularly in the context of transitioning from physics or chemistry backgrounds to fields like aerospace or mechanical engineering. It explores the implications of educational pathways, necessary prerequisites, and potential career limitations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a preference for applications of physics over research and considers transitioning from a chemistry degree to mechanical engineering, questioning the acceptance of such a background in engineering programs.
  • Another participant warns that transitioning from chemistry to engineering may leave the individual behind in terms of required engineering classes, suggesting this is a significant consideration.
  • A participant shares their experience of obtaining an MS in electro-optical engineering with a B.S. in Physics, highlighting that some states require a bachelor's in engineering for licensing, which could impact career opportunities.
  • There is a request for additional input or experiences regarding the transition from a B.S. in Chemistry to an M.S. in Engineering, specifically outside of Chemical Engineering.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying views on the challenges and feasibility of transitioning from a chemistry background to an engineering master's program. There is no consensus on the ease of this transition or the implications for career licensing requirements.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the need for remedial classes and the potential for being unprepared for engineering coursework, as well as the licensing requirements that may necessitate a bachelor's degree in engineering for certain career paths.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering a transition from chemistry or physics to engineering, particularly those interested in aerospace or mechanical engineering, as well as those exploring the implications of educational backgrounds on career opportunities in engineering fields.

cdotter
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After thinking for a few weeks I've realized that I like the applications of physics much more than researching physics. The problem is that my school doesn't offer engineering or engineering physics degrees, so I'm stuck with either physics or chemistry.

If my medical school plans don't flesh out, I think I'd like to go into aerospace or mechanical engineering. Right now I'm leaning towards chemistry because I'll actually be able to graduate on time instead of staying an extra semester with physics. I've read that it shouldn't be too hard to go from a bachelors in physics from a masters in engineering, but what about chemistry to mechanical engineering? I know I would have to take remedial classes, but would they even allow a chemistry student into a mechanical engineering program? By the time I graduate with a chemistry degree I should have Physics 1/2 and Calculus 1-3 (I could also squeeze in Diff Eq 1 and Linear Algebra).

I've looked at simply transferring schools, but the school I'm interested in doesn't accept transfer students for MechE - they only accept 3-2 transfers which is too expensive.
 
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First, you'll be way behind - you'll have to take a number of engineering classes just to be prepared. That doesn't preclude you from doing this, but it may be something to consider.

Second, if your career plans require getting a license, be aware that some states require a bachelor's in engineering. A masters or even doctorate isn't sufficient - they want to see a BS.
 
I received an MS in electro-optical engineering with a B.S. in Physics. (With this, I worked for the USAF doing materials characterization for optical applications.)

But this would bear looking into:
Vanadium 50 said:
... if your career plans require getting a license, be aware that some states require a bachelor's in engineering. A masters or even doctorate isn't sufficient - they want to see a BS.

At one point, I couldn't get a lectureship in an engineering program because I didn't have a bachelor's in engineering... even though the lectureship would have been teaching their Newtonian mechanics courses! (and by that time I had a Ph.D. in physics).
 
Anyone else have any more input or experiences in going from a B.S. Chemistry to an M.S. in Engineering (non-ChemE)?
 

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