Transfer to Engineering from 2nd year science

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision to switch from a Biochemistry major to an Engineering program at UBC. Participants explore the implications of such a transition, including job market prospects, academic requirements, and personal interests in the fields of study.

Discussion Character

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

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about the job market for Biochemists and contemplates switching to Engineering for better career prospects.
  • Another participant shares their positive experience of switching from Biochemistry to Electrical Engineering (EE), emphasizing personal enjoyment of the subject and the option to pursue graduate studies later.
  • Questions arise about the average grades required for admission into the Engineering program at UBC from a Science background, with one participant indicating they have an A average in relevant courses.
  • There is a discussion about the potential time required to graduate from either program, with one participant noting that it may take the same amount of time to complete either degree.
  • Another participant suggests building financial stability through a minimum-wage job while pursuing studies, highlighting alternative financial strategies.
  • One participant seeks information on the competitiveness of transferring into UBC Engineering from a Science major, noting a lack of available statistics on admission grades.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the job market and career prospects in Biochemistry versus Engineering. There is no consensus on the best path forward, as opinions vary regarding personal interests, financial considerations, and academic competitiveness.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various prerequisites and requirements for the Engineering program, but there is uncertainty about how these may affect graduation timelines. The discussion also reflects a range of personal experiences and financial strategies, which may not apply universally.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a major change from Science to Engineering, particularly those interested in the implications for career prospects and academic requirements.

HerpMcDerp
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Sup everybody... so I've created this account after deciding that lurking around for solutions to my Calculus homework isn't the sole benefit of this forum.

So, the problem is that I'm going into a Biochem major next year (2nd year) at UBC which the original intent of apply for the Pharmacy school there but since I've stumbled upon some rather foreboding and bleak outlooks pertaining to the job market not just for Pharmacy but also Biochemistry. Biochemists really don't stack paper to the ceiling without grinding another few years at the mill for a graduate degree from what I can figure, and after the Pharmacy bubble bursts and the job market no longer becomes lucrative I figured it may be time to ditch this life science dog and pony act and switch to something I actually enjoy (and that doesn't pay too bad either)... perhaps Chem & Bio or EE.

The downside to switching to engineering is the extra time and loans just to get an undergrad engineering degree, and on top of that the career prospects for entry level engineers in Canada in the future (According to this reporthttp://www.engineerscanada.ca/files/engineering_labour_market_conditions_report_2010.pdf" ) aren't very nice looking either.

So, what should I do? Stick with science? Or go with engineering? Entertain me with some ideas, please and thank you.
Peace.
 
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I was a third year biochemistry major before I switched into EE (I was also trying to go to pharmacy school), I can say safely say that this is one decision that I will never regret. First reason is because I am in love with the subject. Second of all, you can always try to get a job after getting your bs, and always go back for grad school later (although I heard its very hard to go back to grad school when you start making ok money). But honestly, in your case as it was very similar to mine, if you have the financial opportunities and don't mind staying a couple more semesters, AND if you truly enjoy EE/chemEE, then it is truly a no-brainer decision. Also I want to add that pharm school is expensive so it might take a while to pay off those loans.
 
Hmm ok thanks.. so what kinda average are we looking at for admission in Engineering at UBC from science? I have an A average overall for my first year Math Phys and Chem courses... is that good? Cuz I know they give preference to the Highschoolers who apply and such.
 
You still should be able to get an undergraduate engineering quicker than if you went to pharmacy school. Your graduation date may or may not be in jeopardy after your first year. Maybe you already completed some prerequisites for engineering or just general education requirements?
 
Actually, it'll probably take me the same amount of time to graduate in either program... 6 years, maybe 7 for Engineering if I take co-op. And Yeah I have taken the 1st and will be taking the 2nd year math prereqs (Calc III, Linear Algebra) for the Engineering program but other than that no phys 170 or APSC. Oh well... the loan amount shouldn't be too bad... If I can find a job or get rich by hustling on the streets lol.
 
You could just build up a decent amount of money through a minimum-wage job (if you live with your parents) and then daytrade your way to glory.
 
Going back to my previous question, does anyone here know how competitive it is to get into UBC E from Science? They never reveal any collated statistics about how everyone's grades are lol, and I'm too lazy to wade through that many grade spreads so yeah.
 

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