Accepted for Fall class of 2025

tdr2002
Fri, 02 Apr 2021 18:34:27 +0000

I am between Aerospace Engineering and Astrophysics. I am going to college in the fall (at UCF) and I am registered for Aerospace Engineering, but I am contemplating changing my major to Physics (BS)-Astronomy (astrophysics). It is a very difficult decision. Something I want to mention is that I want to be an astronaut one day and an Air Force Test Pilot prior to doing this. According to NASA, to become an astronaut, I need to “be a U.S. citizen, Possess a master’s degree* in a STEM field, including engineering, biological science, physical science (physics, chemistry), computer science, etc.” The Air Force states “Preferred degrees include aerospace engineering, computer science, chemistry, and physics.” So both Aerospace Engineering and Physics are mentioned as preferred degrees for both of these careers. So from my understanding, I can get where I want with either degree. I have always been more interested in the theoretical aspects of the universe like gravity, relativity, etc. and I am fairly skilled in mathematics. As a high school senior, I am currently taking AP Calculus and AP Physics and I have a high A in both courses. So that is my dilemma here. I am not interested in working in academia and if I were to not become an astronaut or air force pilot, I would like to do something for NASA and the space program. Now, whether that is an Aerospace Engineer or Astrophysicist at NASA is the question? I originally chose AE because I wasn’t informed properly on Reddit forums and people were saying you would be stuck in academia and you wouldn’t be able to become an astronaut or air force pilot (with physics degree), whereas the websites say something contrary (list physics as preferred degree). Please help, with real factual advice. Not opinions. I want to preferably have this set before I leave for college at UCF in the fall so I can change my major if needed. Thank you!!