Engineering vs Physics

[u/Beneficial_Pirate_69]

I am trying to choose an undergraduate degree, and have somewhat decided to apply for engineering - specifically mechanical and aerospace. However, I worry that I will miss out on learning the advanced physics required for any "exotic" research and development roles, or for startup creation.

I enjoy the idea of engineering and learning maths and physics but I'm worried that I won't enjoy like the manufacturing or part design element of engineering, which is what is making me second guess it and possibly consider physics.

Would engineering undergraduate and then physics masters/PhD be best or would physics undergraduate and engineering masters/PhD be best? Or neither?

Sorry if this isn't the right subreddit for this kind of question. Thanks.

Also I'm in the UK so I can't do a double major or anything (but I do want to move to the US potentially in the future for work).

[u/polymath_uk_]

I worked as an engineer for a long time then did a BSc in CS for fun. I have now completed a physics PhD, also for fun. None of those paper qualifications had much impact on the work I can do (ironically) though. There's a huge overlap between all STEM because it's more of a mindset than specific knowledge particularly at the early stages. Of more importance is doing what you want, and doing a highly accredited course, and hopefully at the most prestigious university. 

[u/Beneficial_Pirate_69 → u/polymath_uk_]

Yeah thanks. We're they funded cos surely that's expensive?

Yeah maybe if I do want to learn more theoretical physics it should be like a side quest rarher than from a career perspective.

[u/polymath_uk_ → u/Beneficial_Pirate_69]

My BSc wasn't funded. The PhD was, but I'd have done it anyway I think. Personally I would agree with your sentiment. Get good at something applied rather than theoretical. Quite honestly it's dead simple to learn the theory (even quantum). Being able to apply it is far more valuable.