Which Major? Physics or Mech. Engineering?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the career prospects of majoring in Physics versus Mechanical Engineering for undergraduate students. Participants explore the implications of each major on future employment opportunities, touching on various applications and fields related to both disciplines.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses enjoyment in learning about Physics and mathematics but is concerned about career options after earning a Bachelor's degree.
  • Another participant suggests that engineering, specifically Mechanical Engineering, offers better career prospects compared to Physics.
  • Concerns are raised about the limited job opportunities specifically tied to a Bachelor's degree in Physics, with some suggesting that general degree jobs are available.
  • A participant emphasizes the demand for Mechanical Engineers and the importance of skills like CAD, particularly Solidworks, for employability.
  • One contributor mentions that majoring in Physics is often recommended only for those committed to pursuing graduate studies, particularly a PhD.
  • Teaching positions in high school science and physics are noted as a potential career path for Physics majors, although it is suggested that a Bachelor's degree may limit options compared to a PhD.
  • A participant advocates for geophysics as a viable career path for Physics majors, citing a favorable job outlook in Earth sciences.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the viability of a Physics major compared to Mechanical Engineering, with some advocating for the latter due to perceived better job prospects. There is no consensus on the best path, as various career options and personal interests are discussed.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the uncertainty surrounding job opportunities for Physics graduates, particularly regarding the value of a Master's degree versus a PhD. The discussion also reflects differing regional job markets and educational pathways.

Who May Find This Useful

Undergraduate students considering majors in Physics or Mechanical Engineering, individuals interested in career prospects in STEM fields, and those exploring educational pathways in science and engineering.

WallyP
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Greetings, I'm entering my first semester as an undergraduate student with a major in Physics. I enjoy learning about various applications of Physics and using mathematics to solve certain problems arising from such, and I'm just wondering which major has the best career options after earning a Bachelor's degree.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Engineering.
 
As much as I love studying and learning about pure Physics, I am just worried about my career options after I attain a Bachelor's degree. I'm already enrolled in a Materials Science course this semester as an elective, just in case I need it later on in my studies.
 
I am just worried about my career options after I attain a Bachelor's degree.

You should be, because there aren't many. Not many that will be unique to your degree that is. The regular ol' jobs that require any degree at all will of course be open to you.
 
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I know where you are coming from. I really love learning about new discoveries in physics, but engineering is where you can make a living. If you are worried about getting work, then you should definitely go with Mechanical Engineering. Mechanical Engineers are always in need and the discipline is so broad you can get into almost any industry. If you do go with mechanical engineering take advantage of the opportunity to learn CAD, especially Solidworks. Companies are always looking for engineers with CAD experience.
 
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I usually wouldn't recommend anyone to major in physics unless they were dead set on grad school.
 
1MileCrash said:
I usually wouldn't recommend anyone to major in physics unless they were dead set on grad school.

Actually in my area, high school science and physics teachers are in VERY high demand. So, if teaching was something that might be up your alley, that is something that you could consider.

However, when it comes to physics, it seems like you either get your bachelors and pursue a high school teaching position, or you go all the way and get your PhD. It seems like getting your masters puts you in an in-between place that limits your job opportunities. This is at least from what I have come to understand.
 
Geophysics...Why doesn't anyone ever mention geophysics? I'm a physics major in my second year and am majoring in physics because I eventually want to become a geophysicist. From what I've read, it seems that the career outlook for physicists working in the Earth sciences is pretty good. Am I mistaken?
 

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