Switching Fields: Advice for ChemE Senior Applying to EE PhD Programs

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the challenges and considerations faced by a Chemical Engineering (ChemE) senior applying to PhD programs in Electrical Engineering (EE), particularly in the context of micro/nanofabrication. Participants explore the competitiveness of such a transition, the relevance of interdisciplinary backgrounds, and the importance of demonstrating motivation and research capability.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about being at a disadvantage compared to traditional EE students due to a lack of expected preliminary credentials, questioning the competitiveness of their application to top schools.
  • Another participant suggests that a ChemE background may not be a significant disadvantage if the applicant can demonstrate strong motivation and explain their field switch effectively in their statement of purpose.
  • It is proposed that graduate schools may prioritize research capability over background, indicating that a ChemE degree could provide a solid quantitative foundation for missing EE coursework.
  • Some participants note that interdisciplinary fields like nanotechnology may allow for collaboration between ChemE and EE departments, potentially benefiting the applicant.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the extent of the disadvantage faced by the applicant. While some believe that the lack of a traditional EE background is a significant hurdle, others argue that motivation and research potential can mitigate this issue. No consensus is reached regarding the best path forward for the applicant.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of demonstrating motivation and the potential for interdisciplinary collaboration, but there are unresolved questions about the specific requirements and expectations of EE PhD programs for applicants from different backgrounds.

OscarDevaltra
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Hi

I'm currently a ChemE senior, and I'm applying to grad schools. I have a very good GPA, research, extracurrics, etc. So I would have little worry about getting into a top PhD program in ChemE.

But I want a PhD in Electrical Engineering.

There are many reasons behind this motivation (which I won't go into now). Currently, I'm most interested in micro/nanofabrication. I've taken some courses in this subject, especially related to biotechnology. I also plan to minor in EE before graduation. But does anyone know how competitive I really am? I understand that nanotech. is a multidisciplinary field but am I still at a big disadvantage when compared to other EE students? Am I wasting my time by applying to the top schools?

Thanks!
 
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Look on the school's website you may wish to apply to. Often you can be admitted into another program because for example if you are a chemE major you have demonstrated you can handle the type of work. If you are inadiquately prepared relative to incoming EE majors you may have to begin your coursework with lower level EE classes but this is definitely possible and has been done before.
 
OscarDevaltra said:
Am I still at a big disadvantage when compared to other EE students? Am I wasting my time by applying to the top schools?

Yes, of course. Not having the usual expected preliminary credential is a huge disadvantage, especially when it comes to the top schools. Are you *that* much better than the other candidates for admission that they'll let you in without the usual background?

If you really want to switch fields, I would encourage you to keep trying... but realize how much harder you are making it for yourself. Your choices are either to back up and get a BS or MS in your desired field, or be *much* better than the competition.
 
only the degree names are different. if u really demonstrate strong motivation to pursue phd in EE, you might be in the same league as other EE background ppl.
also, i think, you should precisely explain in ur SOPurpose/SOInterest, why you're switching fields and how that makes you an eligible contender.
nanotech is quite interdisciplinary, so i think chemical engg background should not be too much of a problem/disadvantage, as long as you're open and willing to learn new stuff.
 
I think graduate schools are less interested in your background and more interested in your ability to do research. If you have a ChemE degree I think that shows you have the quantitative background to make up any EE courses you are missing. You can probably also find a project in nanotech that has people in both EE and ChemE departments working on it.
 

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