What Are Suitable Engineering Research Projects to Bridge into Physics?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on selecting a suitable engineering research project that bridges into physics, particularly for a 3000-word essay as part of an access to higher equations engineering course. The participant expresses interest in topics like space propulsion systems, emphasizing the need to align project choices with available resources and faculty expertise. The conversation highlights the importance of practical constraints in project selection and suggests that students should focus on attainable topics rather than overly ambitious ideas.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic engineering principles
  • Familiarity with physics concepts, particularly in propulsion systems
  • Knowledge of academic research methodologies
  • Awareness of resource management in project planning
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "space propulsion systems" and their engineering applications
  • Explore "niches in publishable undergraduate research" for project ideas
  • Learn about "project management techniques" for academic research
  • Investigate "supervising faculty specialties" in engineering and physics departments
USEFUL FOR

Students pursuing engineering or physics degrees, particularly those interested in research projects that integrate both fields, as well as educators and advisors guiding students in project selection.

BL4CKB0X97
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I have just found out that i have been acceptable into an access to higher equations engineering couple. During the interview a year long Research Project was mentioned. The details i have are that it is a 3000 word essay(excluding references and data) which seems kind of small. You get to choose the topic.I asked for more infor and was told "you'll find out soon".

I chose engineering because it is the closest analogue to a Physics (my dream degree). I have done some Research and know that you can get into a physics degree with this course(i was told i would need a foundational year but the interviewer said she had people start immediatly into mainstream).

Question: Any ideas/ advice for an engineering Research Project that would also help me get into Physics. I was thinking of a physics related topic that lies in the grey are between the two. I was thinking maybe some sort of space propulsion system, which is an are of interest of mine.

Thanks.

Ps: the letter i received said it was an interview. Turned out to be a basic overview of the course and being handed an exam. No preparation on my part, should of see it coming really. Passed though.
 
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I would consider the educational level, the available resources, the specialties of the supervising faculty, and the kinds of projects students in the program have done in the past. Students seldom realize when brainstorming project topics that they need to pick a project topic from what is attainable with the time and resource constraints rather than dreaming up any topic on Earth without regard for practical issues.

This article may be helpful:

https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/niches-publishable-undergraduate-research/

I often help students brainstorming these ideas. Send me a PM and we'll begin a private correspondence, because I need to know more details than can likely be shared in the public forum.
 
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BL4CKB0X97 said:
I have just found out that i have been acceptable into an access to higher equations engineering couple. During the interview a year long Research Project was mentioned. The details i have are that it is a 3000 word essay(excluding references and data) which seems kind of small. You get to choose the topic.I asked for more infor and was told "you'll find out soon".

I chose engineering because it is the closest analogue to a Physics (my dream degree).
I'm not understanding; are you a college or high school student? If college, what level and what major?

A 3000 word essay is a month-long research project, not a year-long project...unless the essay is just to summarize the actual project (like a design project).
 
russ_watters said:
I'm not understanding; are you a college or high school student? If college, what level and what major?

A 3000 word essay is a month-long research project, not a year-long project...unless the essay is just to summarize the actual project (like a design project).
English college, not US. I need to go college to get the qualifications that I need to get into university. Once i get this,( the equivalent to three A Levels, not sure what its called across the pond), i will then be eligable for Engineering or some Physics degrees.

Perhaps it is.I asked for further details and was told ' you'll find out'. I do know what ever it is I choose the subject.
 
Dr. Courtney said:
I would consider the educational level, the available resources, the specialties of the supervising faculty, and the kinds of projects students in the program have done in the past. Students seldom realize when brainstorming project topics that they need to pick a project topic from what is attainable with the time and resource constraints rather than dreaming up any topic on Earth without regard for practical issues.

This article may be helpful:

https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/niches-publishable-undergraduate-research/

I often help students brainstorming these ideas. Send me a PM and we'll begin a private correspondence, because I need to know more details than can likely be shared in the public forum.
I will pm you when I have more details myself.
 

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