Job prospects for Engineering vs Physics major

sax
Tue, 06 Nov 2012 12:33:28 +0000

It is a difficult position to be in when torn between these two applications to college.
One can apply for a BS in Physics (science college) or one can apply to the engineering school within the college. They force you to decide immediately.

My son knew he would be a physicist since 5th grade. Seriously had no doubt he would go to grad school and get his Phd in physics.

He applied to physics programs and got in. By his second year of college it was obvious that with a few extra courses he could also get an engineering degree. We pushed him to do this thinking if he decided against grad school he would be in a better position for a job. He had to jump through a few hoops but he was able to get both degrees BS physics and BSEE engineering

He started grad school and within a few months decided he was not ready to devote 6-7 years. So he got out and ended up with a job as an engineer.

He is now in great demand at his job with his added physics knowledge and additional programming skills.

He is doing exactly what he always wanted to do…solving problems using math and physics. A puzzle to solve everyday.

The engineering degree did get him the job along with great pay.