Should I add physics as a second major?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the consideration of adding a physics major alongside a mechanical engineering degree, particularly in the context of pursuing graduate studies in nuclear engineering. Participants explore the implications of this decision, including course load and specific physics classes that may be beneficial.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to add a physics major, noting the feasibility of managing the additional credits while pursuing a graduate degree in nuclear engineering.
  • Another participant mentions that the nuclear engineering program at Ohio State is self-contained, emphasizing the importance of understanding differential equations and vector analysis, while suggesting that a nuclear physics class could be beneficial.
  • A repeated viewpoint supports the idea of adding physics courses, arguing that engineers should take as many physics classes as possible if they can handle the workload.
  • A participant seeks recommendations for specific physics classes to take if completing the full major is not possible, indicating an interest in both practical reactor design and the underlying physics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the value of physics courses for engineering students, particularly in relation to nuclear engineering. However, there is no consensus on whether adding a full physics major is advisable, as opinions vary on the necessity and practicality of this decision.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the importance of specific mathematical concepts and classes in relation to nuclear engineering, but there are no detailed discussions on the prerequisites or the implications of taking additional courses.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a dual major in physics and engineering, particularly those interested in nuclear engineering, as well as those seeking advice on course selection in STEM fields.

Fusiontron
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I'm currently doing mechanical engineering and doing pretty well in it. Adding physics would require me to take 18 credits a couple semesters but it's pretty doable for me. I plan to go to graduate school for nuclear engineering. Would this idea be advisable or should I simply take additional math and physics classes and what should they be?
 
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The NE program at Ohio State was pretty self-contained, as long you understood basic concepts relating to differential equations and vector analysis (for transport theory). A nuclear physics class wouldn't hurt, though. The biggest hurdle was the thermo class which was nothing like stat mech.
 
Fusiontron said:
I'm currently doing mechanical engineering and doing pretty well in it. Adding physics would require me to take 18 credits a couple semesters but it's pretty doable for me. I plan to go to graduate school for nuclear engineering. Would this idea be advisable or should I simply take additional math and physics classes and what should they be?
If one can handle the load/work, then yes, I strongly encourage a adding the physics. Engineers should take as many physics courses as possible.
 
I'm really trying to understand both the practical aspects of reactor design and the physics behind it all. What physics classes specifically would you recommend if I can not do the full major?
 

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