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Physics, Computer Science or Engineering?

I'm feeling a bit uncertain about which degree to apply for. I'm really interested in astrophysics and space, and I've read quite a lot of books and watched videos, but I'm not sure whether there might be more job opportunities in the space sector as an engineer or software developer rather than focusing on research.

It's hard to decide because I’ve heard so many different opinions, some people say physics has a lower employability compared to engineering or computer science, especially right now in the current job market. When I look at job postings for positions I'm interested in, most seem to prefer candidates with CS or engineering backgrounds, while only a few mention they accept other STEM disciplines. I'm pretty sure I'd like a career with a lot of coding so idk if its better to chose one of those and read around astrophysics as a hobby? If anyone has advice or relevant experience, I’d really appreciate it. Thanks in advance :smile:
Original post by iolor
I'm feeling a bit uncertain about which degree to apply for. I'm really interested in astrophysics and space, and I've read quite a lot of books and watched videos, but I'm not sure whether there might be more job opportunities in the space sector as an engineer or software developer rather than focusing on research.
It's hard to decide because I’ve heard so many different opinions, some people say physics has a lower employability compared to engineering or computer science, especially right now in the current job market. When I look at job postings for positions I'm interested in, most seem to prefer candidates with CS or engineering backgrounds, while only a few mention they accept other STEM disciplines. I'm pretty sure I'd like a career with a lot of coding so idk if its better to chose one of those and read around astrophysics as a hobby? If anyone has advice or relevant experience, I’d really appreciate it. Thanks in advance :smile:


Tbh the CS job market is awful right now, engineering or even physics probably have higher employability rates than CS. Job prospects tend to fluctuate wildly and by the time you graduate will mean little. I'd say do what you'd think you'd enjoy and what you'd do best at.
Reply 2
Original post by Rob Bellic
Tbh the CS job market is awful right now, engineering or even physics probably have higher employability rates than CS. Job prospects tend to fluctuate wildly and by the time you graduate will mean little. I'd say do what you'd think you'd enjoy and what you'd do best at.

Ok thanks so much for the advice :smile:
CS has the highest unemployment rate of any subject (not just amongst stem - CS unemployment rates are higher than history, English, art and media).

Pick a subject that you’ll enjoy the most. That’s most likely to lead to the sort of job you’ll also enjoy.

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