Would I be able to get into grad school for EE with a bachelors in physics

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SUMMARY

Students with a bachelor's degree in physics can successfully apply for graduate programs in electrical engineering (EE). Many institutions accept candidates from diverse academic backgrounds, including physics, provided they complete necessary foundational courses such as signals, circuits, and electronics. Computational skills, particularly in programming languages like C/C++, enhance eligibility and research opportunities. Examples of successful transitions from physics to EE graduate programs demonstrate the feasibility of this academic path.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of foundational electrical engineering concepts, including signals and circuits.
  • Proficiency in programming languages, particularly C/C++ for computational applications.
  • Familiarity with research methodologies in physics and engineering.
  • Knowledge of graduate school application processes and requirements for EE programs.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the specific foundational courses required for EE graduate programs at your target institutions.
  • Explore computational physics applications and enhance programming skills in C/C++.
  • Investigate dual degree options, such as pursuing a Ph.D. in Physics alongside an MS in EE.
  • Connect with current graduate students in EE to understand their transition experiences and advice.
USEFUL FOR

Undergraduate students majoring in physics, prospective graduate students in electrical engineering, and academic advisors guiding students in interdisciplinary studies.

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I'm a sophomore in college. I have just finished all my general education requirements and have been thinking about double majoring in physics and EE but I would much rather focus on just physics for the time being. I would still like to be able to pursue EE after I earn a bachelors in physics. Could I go to grad school for EE with a bachelors in physics? or would I have to go back and earn a second bachelors?
 
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I know of at least a few grad students in the EE department at my school who only did Physics undergrads. The advantage for you is that EE is a very broad subject area, and even though you haven't learned a lot of the things EE majors learn (like circuit design beyond a very basic level), you can probably find a couple areas of research that you're well qualified for. If you enjoyed/did well in your computational physics classes and are somewhat proficient with a programming language like C/C++ (in the context of using it for calculations), that will probably help quite a bit.

I'd say you've got a pretty good shot at getting into some form of EE grad school, your options will probably just be more limited than an EE major's.
 
I friend of mine did her bachelors in math with a minor in physics and now she's doing her masters in EE, she just needs to take foundation courses like signals, circuits, and electronics to catch up.
 
At my school, you can do a double grad getting a Ph.D in Physics with a MS in EE with only a BS in Physics. I'm sure many have done it all over the country.
 

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