Transitioning from ChemE to Chemistry: Weighing Job Opportunities and Passion

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision to transition from a Chemical Engineering (ChemE) major to a Chemistry major. The participant expresses a strong passion for research and chemistry, finding it more engaging than ChemE. However, concerns are raised about job availability and salary disparities, with ChemE offering more lucrative and abundant job opportunities compared to Chemistry. The consensus indicates that while pursuing a Chemistry degree may fulfill personal interests, it poses significant risks in terms of job prospects and financial stability.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Chemical Engineering principles and career paths
  • Familiarity with the job market dynamics for ChemE and Chemistry graduates
  • Knowledge of research opportunities in both fields
  • Awareness of the academic requirements for pursuing graduate degrees in Chemistry
NEXT STEPS
  • Research job market trends for Chemical Engineering versus Chemistry graduates
  • Explore graduate programs in Chemistry and their admission requirements
  • Investigate potential research opportunities in academia and industry for Chemists
  • Analyze salary data and employment rates for ChemE and Chemistry positions
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for undergraduate students in engineering or science fields, career advisors, and anyone considering a shift in their academic focus from Chemical Engineering to Chemistry.

alex05
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Hey guys,

I am currently finishing up my freshman year as a chemical engineer and I have seen many threads asking if they should go from chemistry to chemE, but never the other way around. Personally, I like research. I think it would be great to actively do research and try to discover something new. I love chemistry, which has always come natural to me more so than math. I don't find chemE too challenging (you just have to be willing to put in the time) but I do find chemistry more interesting.

However,

Would this be giving up a huge job opportunity for a major with not many? I understand that some majors are more interesting but that doesn't make them more worthwhile. I don't know, chemists and chemical engineers, what do you think?
 
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Or would it be better to get my B.S. in ChemE, work, then get a graduate degree in chemistry later?
 
If, by "do research" you mean working as a professor in academia, you should know that's really a long shot. Job openings are rare and the competition is tough.

Chem E jobs are widely available and generally pay extremely well. Chemistry jobs are becoming rare and generally pay poorly.

With respect to employment, any degree with "engineer" attached is easier to market, IMO.
 

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