PhD in Mechanical Engineering vs Physics?

[RogueWarrior]

Would a doctorate in mechanical engineering help at all? Would one be able to easily find a job as opposed to a doctorate in physics? In addition, which one would generally have the more favorable salary?

thanks.

 

[chill_factor]

a phd in MechE is great for jobs, depending on what specialty within MechE you choose. there's a lot of directions that have little to do with each other.

 

[Shaun_W]

You sound like you'd be much better off just going into industry. For the vast majority of industry mechanical engineering jobs a PhD isn't much use.

 

[AlephZero]

If your PhD is part of a research project sponsored by a company, then both you and the company will get a few years to learn about each other, that might lead to a job offer.

But there's no guarantee of that happening, and if it doesn't - what Shaun_W said.

 

[Matrix0]

Both a PhD in Mechanical Engineering and a PhD in Physics are highly specialized and valuable degrees in the scientific community. The decision between the two ultimately depends on your interests and career goals.

A PhD in Mechanical Engineering would provide a deep understanding of mechanical systems and their applications. This could lead to job opportunities in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy. On the other hand, a PhD in Physics would focus on the fundamental laws and principles of the universe, with potential career paths in research, academia, and technology.

In terms of job prospects, both degrees have a high demand in the job market. However, the job market for mechanical engineers may be slightly more diverse and have a higher number of opportunities compared to physics. This is due to the broad range of industries that require mechanical engineering expertise.

In terms of salary, it is difficult to determine which degree would have a more favorable salary as it largely depends on the specific job and industry. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for mechanical engineers in 2020 was $93,360, while the median annual wage for physicists was $129,380. It is important to note that both degrees have the potential for high salaries, and it ultimately depends on your skills, experience, and job role.

Overall, both a PhD in Mechanical Engineering and a PhD in Physics are highly valuable and can lead to fulfilling and well-paying careers. It is important to carefully consider your interests and career goals before making a decision between the two.