Education path for physics/eng/alternative energy

[pierce]

This is a multilayer question, but I don’t know how ton break it into parts without them becoming irrelevant to my situation.

Background:
I am a reentry student who is in my late 30’s. I decided to go into engineering, because I had always enjoyed solving problems. I want to focus on alternative energy as I would like to make a contribution. I am interested in emerging technologies, such as nanotechnology, as it relates to alternative energy. (FWIW, I am also interested in art and music, as well as enjoying life to its fullest. My first degree attempt was in architecture, but I lacked the maturity and interest level to see it thru…so I spent many years working in a variety of careers. I have also considered myself a hobbyist inventor)

While taking the lower division courses in the mech_eng. program at my community college, I discovered that I also really enjoyed the pratical aspects physics, as well as electromagnetism, chemistry, and mechanics. I am now considering engineering physics, or applied physics?


So here are my questions:

1. Can I get an opinion of the undergraduate degree that may best suit me, in as far as I have explained. (eng with physics minor vs. engineering physics vs. applied physics). With justification, if you please.

2. What would be my considerations of major and level (MS or PhD) for graduate school in comparison to the last question?

3. Am I correct in assuming that applied physics is actually experimental physics?

4. What is experimental physics as opposed to theoretical physics?
I realize that this question is tangential, but I want to make sure that I am understanding how physics types are defined. I like the idea of applying scientific principles to problems, and working to discover a solution, but I am not sure if this is what applied physicist do?


Thanks in advance for any and all input.

 

[TonyG]

Thank you for sharing your background and interests with us. I can understand how overwhelming it can be to break down a complex question into smaller, more manageable parts. However, I will do my best to address each of your questions and provide some insights and recommendations based on your situation.

1. In terms of undergraduate degree, it really depends on your specific interests and career goals. Both engineering and physics are excellent options for someone interested in alternative energy and emerging technologies. However, engineering tends to be more practical and hands-on, while physics focuses more on theoretical concepts. A degree in engineering with a minor in physics may provide a well-rounded education and allow you to apply both your problem-solving skills and your interest in physics to your studies. On the other hand, an engineering physics or applied physics degree may provide a more specialized and in-depth understanding of the physics behind alternative energy technologies. It ultimately depends on what you are most passionate about and what you see yourself doing in the future.

2. When it comes to graduate school, you may want to consider the specific research opportunities and programs offered by each university. Look for programs that align with your interests and career goals, and consider the faculty and their areas of expertise. It may also be helpful to reach out to current graduate students or alumni to get a better understanding of the program and its strengths. As for the level of degree, it also depends on your career goals. If you are interested in conducting research or teaching at the university level, a PhD may be necessary. However, a master's degree may be suitable for certain careers in industry.

3. Applied physics can indeed be considered a form of experimental physics, as it focuses on applying theoretical concepts to real-world problems and conducting experiments to test and improve those concepts. However, applied physics may also involve theoretical analysis and modeling, in addition to experimental work. It is a broad field that can encompass various areas of physics, such as optics, materials science, and energy.

4. Experimental physics involves conducting experiments and collecting data to test and validate theoretical concepts. Theoretical physics, on the other hand, focuses on developing and refining theories and models to explain physical phenomena. Both are essential components of the scientific process and work hand in hand to advance our understanding of the world. As an applied physicist, you may find yourself doing both experimental and theoretical work, depending on your research interests and projects.

I hope this helps provide some clarity and guidance for your academic

 

[piercas]

As a scientist in the field of alternative energy, I can provide some insights and guidance on your questions regarding your education path.

1. In terms of undergraduate degrees, it ultimately depends on your specific interests and career goals. A degree in engineering with a minor in physics would provide a strong foundation in both fields, allowing you to apply physics principles to solve engineering problems in alternative energy. Engineering physics would also be a good option, as it combines both engineering and physics coursework and may have a stronger focus on applications in the energy sector. Applied physics may have a broader focus on various applications of physics, but may not have as much emphasis on engineering principles. I would suggest researching the specific curriculum and course offerings of each program to see which aligns best with your interests and goals.

2. When considering graduate school, the same factors apply - your interests and career goals. A master's degree in engineering or engineering physics would likely be more applicable for a career in alternative energy, as it would provide more practical and hands-on experience. A PhD in applied physics may be more research-oriented and may be better suited for those interested in pursuing a career in academia or research and development.

3. Applied physics can encompass both theoretical and experimental aspects. It refers to the application of physics principles to real-world problems and can involve both theoretical and experimental work. So, it is not necessarily limited to experimental physics.

4. Experimental physics focuses on conducting experiments and collecting data to test and validate theories and principles. Theoretical physics, on the other hand, focuses on developing and refining theories and models to explain and predict physical phenomena. Applied physics can encompass both of these areas, as well as the practical application of these theories and principles to solve real-world problems.

Based on your interests and background, it seems like engineering physics or applied physics would be the best fit for you. These programs would provide a strong foundation in both engineering and physics, allowing you to apply your skills and knowledge to the field of alternative energy. I would also recommend talking to professors or professionals in the field to get their insights and advice on which path would be best for you. Good luck on your educational journey!