Proceeding with BA in physics to Graduate school for environmental engineering

[Avondail]

I was hoping some of you could help with some advice on my current career path. I am enrolled at Suny Geneseo, New York currently working on a BA in physics. Originally i chose Geneseo based on the reputation of its physics and education programs, but i decided early on that i wanted to advance into the engineering field. My main question i suppose is if a BA in physics along with minors in mathematics and environmental science is the correct path leading towards grad school for environmental engineering and obviously my future career. My advisors say this has been done countless times but I am not so sure I am ready to risk 4 years of my education on one advisors opinion. If someone could please provide their concerns/ideas over this choice that would be EXTREMELY helpful.

I also am slightly concerned whether or not i should obtain a BS or BA in physics. Should i do the 3-2 program with 3 years of physics here in geneseo and 2 years in an engineering school? Transfer to an engineering school all together? I also will not be setting myself up for a license. Please give me some advice...

 

[fss]

Look into environmental engineering graduate programs and see what their admissions requirements are. If they require an engineering degree, you should switch to a major in engineering.

 

[Avondail]

I see that you have a degree in physics and went on to become an engineer. Everything work out fine for you then? the fact that you don't have a license didnt seem to harm you?

 

[fss]

the fact that you don't have a license didnt seem to harm you?

My particular engineering discipline doesn't require licensure, but otherwise it's been fine. Some things I had to learn on the job, other things I knew much more than I had to.

 

[rezeew]

I can understand your concerns about your career path and the decision to pursue a BA in physics and minors in mathematics and environmental science before going to graduate school for environmental engineering. It is important to carefully consider your options and gather information from various sources before making a decision.

Firstly, it is important to understand that a BA in physics may not provide you with the same level of technical knowledge and practical skills as a BS in physics. However, it is not uncommon for students with a BA in physics to pursue graduate studies in engineering fields. Your advisors are correct in saying that this has been done countless times, and it is certainly possible for you to succeed in this path.

In terms of whether you should do the 3-2 program or transfer to an engineering school, it ultimately depends on your personal goals and preferences. The 3-2 program may allow you to gain a more well-rounded education and have a stronger foundation in physics before diving into engineering courses. On the other hand, transferring to an engineering school may allow you to focus solely on engineering courses and gain more specialized knowledge. It would be helpful to speak to students who have gone through both paths and get their perspectives on the pros and cons of each.

One important factor to consider is whether you will be setting yourself up for a license in environmental engineering. If obtaining a license is important to you, then it would be beneficial to look into the specific requirements for licensure and see if your chosen path aligns with those requirements. You may also want to speak with professionals in the environmental engineering field to get their insights on the importance of a license in this field.

In conclusion, it is important to gather information from various sources and carefully consider your options before making a decision about your career path. Your advisors can provide valuable guidance, but it is also important to seek advice from other professionals and students who have gone through similar paths. Ultimately, the most important factor is to pursue a path that aligns with your interests and goals. Best of luck in your decision-making process.