Double Degree Chemical Engineering and Astrophysics.

Martian671 · 03-09-2012, 12:33 AM

Hello. I just wanted to know if it is possible to major in chemical engineering and astrophysics and if astrophysics coursework is applicable to a chemical engineering degree. I am very interested in both fields and therefore want to complete a double degree in both fields if possible. My unweighted high school GPA is 3.97 and I got a 27 composite score on the ACT (27 for math). I currently take college chemistry and AP Calculus AB. If a double degree in these both areas would be possible, how difficult would it be considering that I go to school full time and also take summer classes? Thanks.

JamesMadison · 03-09-2012, 12:54 AM

Just because you're interested, doesn't mean you need a double degree.
Just take a few classes for a minor, or hell, just get a few books from the library.

Such an unusual double-degree would probably add 1.5 years to your graduation, and would not improve your job prospects at all, since ultimately you must work in one of those two fields.

alchemist007 · 03-09-2012, 01:50 AM

Those that study Astrophysics do it because they want to be at the forefront of human knowledge and discovery on the subject. They tend to devote all their time studying and researching Astrophysics as an undergraduate. They continue their education in pursuit of a PhD in Astrophysics. Afterwards they continue to do research and publish papers on the hope that one day they will make a profound discovery and be recognized in the scientific community.

The patient & hardworking students that want to be the best Astrophysicists they can be devote much of their life to working hard because they hope to reach great things.

On the other hand Chemical Engineering would give you a stable job, a good income and would allow ample time to pursue other personal interests.

An Astrophysics job requires a very high level of intellectual input.
A Chemical Engineering job requires a low to moderate level of intellectual input.

Ultimately it will be up to you to decide one path. You could either follow an uncertain dream or live a comfortable life, yet always wondering if that dream could have become reality

You only have one life, please choose wisely.

*xraymancs* · 03-09-2012, 02:22 AM

You would study astrophysics as a graduate student, not as an undergraduate. At the undergraduate level, you would be studying physics as the second major (possibly, but less likely, astronomy). as others have noted, with a Chemical Engineering degree, you can get a job right out of college. For astrophysics, a Ph.D is required, followed by one or more postdoctoral research positions. All that being said, if you really want to do the two degrees, go for it.

Good luck!

JamieBrown · 03-09-2012, 03:39 AM

A Chemical Engineering degree is tough enough. To also obtain an Astrophysics degree at the same time would be practically impossible.

why?

this might offer a clue:

Quote:

I got a 27 composite score on the ACT (27 for math).