Study engineering or astrophysics at university?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the decision of pursuing a degree in electrical and computer engineering versus astrophysics, particularly in relation to career opportunities in astronomy and astrophysics. Participants explore the feasibility of combining engineering studies with physics coursework and the implications for future career paths in the field of astrophysics.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification, Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a preference for electrical and computer engineering due to perceived job security, while still having an interest in astronomy and astrophysics.
  • Another participant suggests that while an engineering degree can lead to jobs in aerospace and related fields, it does not equate to doing astrophysics research.
  • A question is raised about the possibility of studying physics concurrently with an engineering degree at an open university, with concerns about time management.
  • A later reply indicates that while there may not be enough time for a full physics degree, taking individual physics classes could be feasible and beneficial.
  • One participant shares their personal experience of studying astrophysics and transitioning into engineering, highlighting practical applications like building telescopes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best path forward, with differing opinions on the feasibility of combining engineering and physics studies and the nature of careers in astrophysics.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of clarity on specific time commitments for dual studies and the varying definitions of what constitutes work in astrophysics versus engineering roles.

Nazgul_Gondor
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Hi,

I've just graduated from school and getting ready for university. I really love computers and astronomy-astrophysics. I've decided to follow a career as an a electrical and computer engineer and not physics. I've chose this mainly because I will find a job easier than going to physics (at least at my country). However I would like to know if in the future I will be able, if I want to, to work on the field of astronomy-astrophysics. Is it possible or am I heading to the wrong direction? I would really like an answer from a person who has the same experience as I.


Thanks
 
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As an EE you'll be able to find jobs at aerospace companies, national labs and you'll be able to work on instruments astrophysicists use, but you won't be doing the work astrophysicists do.

Just do astrophysics if that's what you really want.
 
Is it possible while I'm studying engineering at the university, to do a degree on physics at the open university at UK? I mean, will there be time? Is it possible? Has anyone done sth similar?
 
No there isn't time. But you can probably take some physics classes in your university either to count toward your engineering degree or just out of interest.

Oddly enough I did astrophysics and it turned out to be a good way of getting into engineering! I built telescopes and large astronomical instruments.
 

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