Current Policy
1. To apply:
a. Minimum GPA of 3.0
b. Minimum credits of 30 credit hours
2. The process from your side
a. Write a letter of intent:
i. Your current status: GPA, earned credits, and current credits.
ii. Your reasons for going for physics, the other major, and the combination
b. Submit transcript (pdf of the registrar site)
c. Contacts (Name, Id, mobile, advisor)
3. Then,
a. The physics department discusses the joint plan with the other department.
b. The two department approve the application
c. The two deans approve the application
d. The registrar get notified
4. KFUPM, in return,
a. Allow you to take courses of the joint program
b. Provides you with an additional year of support
c. You graduate with two independent bachelor’s degrees
Department | % |
---|
EE | 33% |
ME | 28% |
MATH | 15% |
CHEM | 5% |
ICS | 7% |
AE | 2% |
CHE | 2% |
SWE | 2% |
Total | 100% |
Double Major Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the requirements?
> Minimum GPA of 3.0
> a signed request letter from you addressed to physics chairman
> A transcript
Why should I consider double-major?
> To satisfy your inner curiosity for Physics: fundamentals of nature
> physics knowledge increases your ability to think outside the box; be innovative and simply think differently
> Science and engineering are different schools of thoughts. Knowing both is advantageous.
> Better Job opprotunities : engineering job with some science aspects or science job with practicality of engineering
> Prestige!
Is a master degree better for me than another Bsc?
A second degree costs you one additional year of average load but MSc costs 2-3 additional years
Double degrees are done in parallel but MSc is done after BSc
MSc requires research component which is very different from traditional courses. Some undergraduate programs also have research component.
You could use these courses (senior project, seminar or summer training) toward gaining research experience as well.
In general, BSc gives your breadth while MSc gives you depth. Very different undergraduate degrees (say science and engineering) could also give you depth.
In general, depth is more about "how do you think what you study" rather than "what you study". It is a style of thinking
How long does the process take?
After submitting your request to double major to the department, the request usually is approved within one academic semester. It is better to apply
When is the best time to apply?
There is no specific time. However, toward the end of the freshman year is a good time.
Best wishes
For further information please contact:
--------------------------------------------------------------
Dr. Jihad H Al-Sadah
Asst. Professor, Physics - KFUPM
KFUPM, Building 6, Room 145
Dhahran 31261, SA
Office +966 3 860 4893