Which engineering involves the most physics?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the comparison of engineering disciplines, specifically Chemical Engineering (ChemE), Mechanical Engineering (ME), Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS), and Aerospace Engineering (aero/astro). Participants agree that ChemE and ME involve more foundational physics concepts, particularly mechanics, while EECS focuses more on mathematics and applied physics, especially at the undergraduate level. The consensus is that EECS offers better job opportunities and flexibility, but those interested in a deeper understanding of physics should consider ChemE or ME. Graduate-level EE classes may provide more physics content, particularly in electromagnetics and semiconductor applications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Differential Equations (diffEq)
  • Familiarity with Fourier and Laplace Transforms
  • Basic concepts of Electromagnetism (E&M)
  • Knowledge of Mechanics for ChemE and ME
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the curriculum differences between ChemE and ME programs
  • Explore graduate-level Electrical Engineering courses focusing on electromagnetics
  • Investigate job market trends for EECS graduates
  • Learn about the applications of physics in Chemical and Mechanical Engineering
USEFUL FOR

Students considering engineering majors, academic advisors, and professionals evaluating career paths in engineering fields.

6eecs
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Hi,

I'm considering , ChemE, ME, EECS, and aero/astro. As far as I know, EECS seems to have the best job opportunities and flexibility (especially the CS part), but ChemE/ME seem to have more physics in general. It seems like EECS at my school involves quite a lot of math (diffEq/Fourier/Laplace transform for courses like signals&systems, algorithm for CS classes), but very little physics per se, unless you get to graduate level EE classes.

I was wondering if anyone could clarify to me if I'm having any misconceptions.

Thank you.
 
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6eecs said:
As far as I know, EECS seems to have the best job opportunities and flexibility (especially the CS part), but ChemE/ME seem to have more physics in general.
Don't do it for the job prospects, you'll either drop out or hate yourself in a few years if you do.

It seems like EECS at my school involves quite a lot of math (diffEq/Fourier/Laplace transform for courses like signals&systems, algorithm for CS classes), but very little physics per se, unless you get to graduate level EE classes.
That's about right. Aside from electromagnetics and semi-conductors, all the physics is so applied that it's hard to see the physics part. What I mean is that it's all devices and signals and very much an extension of E&M physics, but on such a level that it's more of a conceptual leap than the ChemE/ME physics (which is a closer extension of mechanics.) If you like mechanics, go the ChemE/ME route, but if you just like physics, well EE's got lots of it too.
 

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