Programs Physics degree vs. Engineering vs. Applied Math

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the decision-making process regarding academic paths related to math, with a focus on pursuing degrees in Physics, Engineering, or Applied Math. The individual expresses a desire to study applications of math rather than pure math, considering options for double majors. A contributor shares their experience as a software developer with degrees in Physics and Applied Math, noting that not having an engineering degree has not hindered their career. The conversation also highlights the importance of passion in choosing a major, emphasizing that success in school requires significant dedication. The individual is particularly interested in exploring career opportunities beyond academia after graduate school and is contemplating the feasibility of combining an engineering degree with a math double major, acknowledging the challenges involved.
thrill3rnit3
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Pros and cons of each? I want my future to have something to do with Math [ it's my passion duh ], but I'd rather study an application of it than in it's purety [ though that's still not out of the question ].

So right now I'm considering getting a Physics degree, or maybe an Engineering [ still not sure what - anyone help? ] or an Applied Math degree [ with a specialization closely related to the previous two ].

Any suggestions?
 
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Of course I'm also considering a double major.

Although what to major on is still a question for me.
 
Quick answer... Do what you love. To be successful in school, you're going to have to spend a LOT of time working on it.

Myself, I'm a full-time software developer with degrees in Physics (undergrad) and Applied Math (master's). I have never found the lack of an "engineering" degree to be a handicap in my work. Of course, your mileage may vary.
 
I would love to do ANY of these. I guess my question would be more about my future after studying. I'm planning to continue on to graduate school, but other than academia work, what other opportunities are there?

I'm leaning towards:

1. applied math (any ideas for a double major?)
2. physics (with a math double major)
3. engineering (unsure what speciality, again with a math double major)
 
Depends on the school, but doing a second degree to go with an engineering degree is a pretty tall order
 
Yeah that's what people are telling me. So if I do take the engineering path it would probably just be that or a minor in something.
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
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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