SUMMARY
The discussion centers on a Mechanical Engineering (ME) student seeking to supplement their education with upper-division Physics courses that minimize overlap with their current curriculum. Participants emphasize the importance of having a solid foundation in lower-division Physics before advancing to upper-division classes. Suggestions include evaluating previously taken Physics courses and consulting with academic advisors to identify suitable electives. The conversation highlights that while some courses may share titles, the content and perspective can differ significantly between Physics and ME departments.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of lower-division Physics concepts such as Newtonian Mechanics and Electromagnetism (E&M).
- Familiarity with Mechanical Engineering curriculum and course offerings.
- Knowledge of academic advising processes in higher education.
- Ability to assess course content and relevance to personal educational goals.
NEXT STEPS
- Research upper-division Physics courses available at your university, focusing on those with minimal overlap with ME.
- Consult with an academic advisor to discuss course selection and academic goals.
- Review the syllabus and content of lower-division Physics courses previously completed.
- Explore advanced topics in Physics such as Quantum Mechanics or Thermodynamics from a Physics perspective.
USEFUL FOR
Mechanical Engineering students, academic advisors, and anyone interested in enhancing their understanding of Physics in relation to engineering principles.