Engineering vs. Math -- What to major in?

thumper99
Thu, 31 Mar 2011 09:24:35 +0000

The reason you’re out of a job is because… well, you majored in metallurgical engineering. this is a dead field. I’m currently a ugrad in mechanical engineering (at a top 20 engineering uni) and I’ve come to realize mechanical engineering is dead as well. At least traditional MechE. (the best I can do is apply thermal mechanics theory to new age issues & problems)

You need to look at the next 20 years – what is going to be the focus of science and engineering then? When going for my PhD I will be switching to some other engineering, most likely biomedical. Biomedicine and biotech is where I feel most innovation and work will be done in the future.

Also, as an engineer you need to have the drive to continually learn – as in lifelong learning. This may or may not be the case with you, but if you’re not keeping up with the new curriculum, of course you’ll be obsolete very quickly.

OP: I think there is more to engineering than just the job prospects. Engineering will hone your problem solving and analytical skills unlike most other majors – a truly valuable skill. I would look outside the box a little before making my decision.