Going to graduate school in EE/CS with BS in physics?

[exe163]

Hello everyone,

I am currently a college sophomore thinking about going to graduate school (likely phd) after I finish my undergrad. I was wondering how likely is it for me to get into top graduate programs in EE or CS if I finish my undergrad in physics with CS minor or double major?

I am currently on the ECE track. I am transferring this semester due to my dislike of my current school. My courses are pretty evenly distributed between ECE, physics, math, and CS. I want to apply to liberal arts colleges as physics or cs major but I am not sure if this would set me off track too much. I enjoy learning physics and cs as well as ece, but I ultimately want to work for a high tech company or start my own, hence graduate school. However, I don't want this decision to hinder my goal of getting into a good graduate program.

Any feedback is appreciated.

[ktel]

I know a handful of physics grads in my engineering grad program. I don't think physics to EE/CS is too far of a stretch at all, especially if you can get some research experience in right now.

[voxelite]

I've wondered the same thing, as I just applied to the Duke ECE program because of the metamaterials research being done there (and I'm finishing up my B.S. in physics right now). I didn't know how good my chances are, but they're flying me out to the open house, so things are looking pretty good.

So according to my personal anecdotal evidence, it shouldn't be too much of a stretch. Most of the programs I'm applying for are materials science, though, and I didn't apply to Stanford, Princeton, or any of the highest ranked EE schools, so I won't be able to offer any help there.

You could always try emailing one of the professors at one of those schools, though. I've been pleasantly surprised at how successful emailing random strangers can be.

[MrBigStuff]

I have a bachelor's in physics with a minor in math from a small liberal arts college, and have recently been accepted to UT Austin and Tufts for master's programs in mechanical engineering (waiting to hear back from various others).  I've heard from many sources (including engineering professors) that physics prepares you well for mechanical and electrical engineering, so you should be fine, especially if you major in CS as well.  If you're really worried about it, Boston University's LEAP program allows people with a bachelor's degree in literally any subject to pursue a master's (and eventually a Ph.D. if you want) in various fields of engineering, but you certainly don't need to do anything like that.  

[ak48]

BS in physics, got accepted to EE PhD programs (although not the top programs....)