Physics major having second thoughts

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SUMMARY

A fourth-year undergraduate student is reconsidering their choice of major from physics to mechanical engineering. Despite enjoying physics, they express interest in engineering and seek options to integrate both fields. The discussion highlights that a physics degree can lead to a career in mechanical engineering, and suggests taking additional courses that complement this path. The insights from ZapperZ emphasize the versatility of a physics degree in providing various career opportunities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of undergraduate physics curriculum
  • Familiarity with mechanical engineering principles
  • Knowledge of graduate school admission requirements for engineering
  • Awareness of interdisciplinary course offerings
NEXT STEPS
  • Research graduate programs in mechanical engineering that accept physics undergraduates
  • Explore elective courses in mechanical engineering while completing a physics degree
  • Investigate career paths that combine physics and mechanical engineering
  • Read articles on the versatility of a physics degree in various engineering fields
USEFUL FOR

Undergraduate students in physics, prospective engineering students, and individuals exploring interdisciplinary career options in physics and engineering.

aztecsurfer
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I'm a 4th year student in my second year as a physics undergrad. Having changed my major 4 times, I decided to settle on a subject and chose physics, which I do enjoy. However, the more I think about it, the more interesting engineering, specifically mechanical engineering, seems. Changing my major a 5th time, especially at this stage, is out of the question, but what sort of options do I have in getting a physics degree but finding a career that involves mechanical engineering, and is graduate school for engineering with a degree in physics even possible?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Actually, I think it was ZapperZ (not sure) that had an excellent point on physics careers in a post in Physics Post (it's linked fromt he main page even, I believe).

With a physics degree, you can pursue mechanical engineering still. The article even suggests taking non-physics-required courses that may compliment your career (in your case, mechanical engineering).

I personally think Physics is something that gives you a broad spectrum of cohcies, which is why I eventually chose it as a major. (I changed my major psychologically several times, but remained technically undeclared until I was sure about physics)
 

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