Switched from CompE to PhysE, want to go to EE. Help me

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a participant's transition from Computer Engineering (CompE) to Physics Engineering (PhysE) and their desire to eventually switch to Electrical Engineering (EE). The conversation explores concerns about programming requirements, the relevance of math and physics skills, and the potential pathways to graduate studies in EE.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about their choice of major, initially selecting CompE without sufficient research, then switching to PhysE due to interests sparked by popular science media.
  • Another participant suggests starting as an engineer, noting that the first year includes foundational math and physics courses common to both engineering and physics students, which may help clarify interests.
  • Concerns are raised about the necessity of programming in both EE and physics, with some participants sharing their dislike for programming while acknowledging its importance in technical fields.
  • A participant shares a similar experience, indicating they switched from EE to Engineering Systems and Computing after taking an Electromagnetism course, highlighting the flexibility in switching programs during the freshman year.
  • Questions arise regarding the eligibility of an engineering physics student for graduate studies in EE, with responses indicating that it is likely possible but may require additional undergraduate coursework.
  • One participant expresses frustration over the lack of information available online about Engineering Physics.
  • A participant mentions contacting their college's engineering department about switching to EE and receiving advice to wait until arriving on campus to finalize changes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the best approach to switching majors and the implications of programming requirements. There is no clear consensus on the best path forward, as opinions vary on the importance of programming and the flexibility of switching majors.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the potential need for additional undergraduate courses for those transitioning from engineering physics to EE graduate programs, but the specifics of these requirements remain unclear.

RESmonkey
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I start my freshmen year this fall (yeah, i know, there's time to change). I was originally in CompE because I choose it without really researching. Then switched to Physics because, like everyone else here, I'm interested in finding new things and String theory, and what not.

But that's only because I watched Elegant Universe on tv, and read about Black Holes, etc. I have no idea on any of the math behind it all.

I'm great with Computers and electronics, although I hate programming.
I want to work with and design HDTVs, Projectors, and other high end equipment. I hear EEs do all that stuff.

I don't know what to do.

By the way, I'm very good at math (Calc II was easy for me) and Physics.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
start as an engineer, as its easier to get out of engineer than to get into it. Your first year, you will take the same math and physics courses that a physics student would take, along with the introductory courses of your major. at that point you will see what interests you. It might not be too late even two years from now, so don't worry about things too much.

As an EE you will have to do some programming. But the same could be said of almost every technical major
 
yeah ur gonan do a lot of programming in either EE or physics. You got to make sure your technology does what you want it to do.

..i too hate programming. Could you do something else? Learn physics for fun. Take a few courses like quantum and read popular science journals.
 
RESmonkey said:
I start my freshmen year this fall (yeah, i know, there's time to change). I was originally in CompE because I choose it without really researching. Then switched to Physics because, like everyone else here, I'm interested in finding new things and String theory, and what not.

But that's only because I watched Elegant Universe on tv, and read about Black Holes, etc. I have no idea on any of the math behind it all.

I'm great with Computers and electronics, although I hate programming.
I want to work with and design HDTVs, Projectors, and other high end equipment. I hear EEs do all that stuff.

I don't know what to do.

By the way, I'm very good at math (Calc II was easy for me) and Physics.
Holy crap, I'm exactly the same way, in every respect that you've described.

My first choice was EE, but after doing a course in Electromagnetism, I switched to Engineering Systems and Computing, to start Freshman this September. I can switch freely between programs when I pinpoint my interest down the road.
 
Can an engineering physics student (with a bacherlors of science in eng. phsyics) go to an EE grad school?
 
Probably. You might have to take some undergrad courses before they let you take the graduate level ones, but I hear it's fairly common.
 
There isn't much information on the internet about Engineering Physics, even. argh!
 
I called up the Engineering dept. at my college and asked them about switiching to EE. They said the paperwork for switching to Physics is still working its way through, and so I should wait and make the change once I get there in August.

I think I made the right decision; can't wait until it's changed :)
 

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