EE or ChemE? Research vs. Courses

In summary, the individual is seeking advice on whether to switch from their current Electrical Engineering (EE) major to Chemical Engineering (ChemE) due to a potential change in interests towards research and graduate school. They are concerned about the curriculum and job prospects in both fields and are considering physics as well. They are advised to focus on their interests rather than future employment and to keep in mind that their preferences may change before graduation.
  • #1
GNRtau
18
0
This should probably be in the academic guidance forum, but I figured it couldn't hurt to ask here. Please don't attack me. :)


I am a first semester(well, second now I guess) ECE who is now considering a switch to ChemE. I chose EE originally because I looked up the ChemE curriculum and it didn't seem all that exciting to me(transport phenomena,thermodynamics, etc). I also heard that most ChemE jobs were process jobs in plants and more alike MechE than chemistry. This was before I was set on grad school and research. Now, granted, I haven't taken the courses, so I might like them if I took them-has anyone found this to be the case?

Recently I wonder if I haven't been having a change of heart. I am hoping to go to grad school eventually, regardless of what I do, and have been looking at research possibilities I looked at research at the ChemE and ECE departments at my school and other schools as well. I noticed that there was a lot of research going on that interested me. Renewable energy, polymers, biotech... etc.

As for ECE, there are some research topics that really interest me, but fewer than ChemE. Nanotechnology, mainly, as well as plasma and quantum stuff in general. Artificial intelligence is also cool, but that isn't in EE at my school. I am also worried about the fact that I am not particularly good at or interested in progamming. Does that me that I should forget about EE? However, the rest of the EE curriculum really interests me-or a good amount of it does anyway. Needless to say, I'm a little lost.

Anyone have some advice? Should I not be focusing on what research interests me yet? And is it weird when a departments research interests me but the courses don't-or is that a sign that I truly don't know what I am talking about? I am also considering physics, so clearly I have a lot of soul searching to do. Maybe I just need to pick something and go with it.

Happy New Year, BTW.
2011 sucked, but 2012 will go great for me! I hope...
 
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  • #2
My best advice is to choose the curriculum that most interests you. Forget about employment after graduation. Your preferences are likely to change before graduation.
 

FAQ: EE or ChemE? Research vs. Courses

What is the difference between EE and ChemE?

EE (Electrical Engineering) and ChemE (Chemical Engineering) are two distinct branches of engineering. EE focuses on the design and application of electrical systems, while ChemE focuses on the design and operation of chemical processes. Both fields involve problem-solving and the use of mathematical and scientific principles, but they have different applications and career paths.

Which field has more research opportunities, EE or ChemE?

Both EE and ChemE offer a wide range of research opportunities. However, the type of research may differ between the two fields. EE research often involves developing new technologies and devices, while ChemE research focuses more on the design and optimization of chemical processes. It ultimately depends on your personal interests and career goals.

Should I focus on taking more courses or doing research in my field of study?

This depends on your goals and interests. If you are planning to pursue a career in academia or research, it may be beneficial to focus on research and gain hands-on experience in your field. However, if you are more interested in a career in industry, taking a variety of courses may be more beneficial as it can provide you with a diverse skill set.

Can I do research in a field that is different from my major?

Yes, it is possible to do research in a field that is different from your major. Many research projects involve interdisciplinary collaboration, so having knowledge and skills from different fields can be beneficial. However, it is important to have a basic understanding of the field in which you are conducting research.

What are the benefits of doing research as an undergraduate student?

Doing research as an undergraduate student can provide you with valuable hands-on experience, allowing you to apply the knowledge and skills you have learned in your courses. It can also help you develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Additionally, research experience can make you more competitive for graduate school or job opportunities in the future.

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