Proceeding with BA in physics to Graduate school for environmental engineering

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the career path of a student pursuing a BA in physics with the intention of advancing to graduate school for environmental engineering. Participants explore the implications of their educational choices, including the relevance of their current degree and minors, as well as the potential need for a switch to an engineering major.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about whether a BA in physics with minors in mathematics and environmental science is the right path for graduate school in environmental engineering, questioning the reliance on their advisor's opinion.
  • Another participant suggests looking into the admissions requirements of environmental engineering graduate programs, indicating that a switch to an engineering major may be necessary if an engineering degree is required.
  • A participant shares their experience of transitioning from a physics degree to engineering, noting that not having a license did not hinder their career, although they had to learn some aspects on the job.
  • There is a concern about whether to pursue a BA or BS in physics, and whether to follow a 3-2 program or transfer to an engineering school entirely.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity of an engineering degree for graduate school in environmental engineering, with some advocating for a switch while others share personal experiences that suggest it may not be essential. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best educational path.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of understanding specific graduate program requirements and the implications of licensure in various engineering disciplines, but no consensus is reached on the best course of action.

Avondail
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I was hoping some of you could help with some advice on my current career path. I am enrolled at Suny Geneseo, New York currently working on a BA in physics. Originally i chose Geneseo based on the reputation of its physics and education programs, but i decided early on that i wanted to advance into the engineering field. My main question i suppose is if a BA in physics along with minors in mathematics and environmental science is the correct path leading towards grad school for environmental engineering and obviously my future career. My advisors say this has been done countless times but I am not so sure I am ready to risk 4 years of my education on one advisors opinion. If someone could please provide their concerns/ideas over this choice that would be EXTREMELY helpful.

I also am slightly concerned whether or not i should obtain a BS or BA in physics. Should i do the 3-2 program with 3 years of physics here in geneseo and 2 years in an engineering school? Transfer to an engineering school all together? I also will not be setting myself up for a license. Please give me some advice...
 
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Look into environmental engineering graduate programs and see what their admissions requirements are. If they require an engineering degree, you should switch to a major in engineering.
 
I see that you have a degree in physics and went on to become an engineer. Everything work out fine for you then? the fact that you don't have a license didnt seem to harm you?
 
Avondail said:
the fact that you don't have a license didnt seem to harm you?

My particular engineering discipline doesn't require licensure, but otherwise it's been fine. Some things I had to learn on the job, other things I knew much more than I had to.
 

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