From what I've read and heard about scientific computing/computational science is that it is perfect for those who have interest in physical problems but like using programming and numerical methods. I've only taken one numerical methods course as an undergrad, but liked it. I also like physics/engineering, so I think this may be a good field for me
I have 3 options to pursue an MS and then a career in computational science. I have no desire to pursue a PhD and work in research as I just want to get into industry asap and work as an engineer/scientist performing simulations and modeling. I also have no desire on working on the Master's thesis but I have no other choice
(1)I was enrolled in a Physics Phd program but took a leave of absence from the program and have been approved to re-enter the grad program starting in the Fall 2014 semester. I could continue with this program and leave after getting the Master's. Even if I don't get the phd, the program will still be funded. Getting the MS should take 2 semester but I have to work on a thesis for both semesters. The school is considered top 20 in physics and top 10 for computational science. However, since most students get a phd and want to continue in academia, my guess is that this program doesn't offer great networking opportunities
(2) I could transfer to a stats or computational science MS program, but I have to wait until Fall 2015 and I would have to pay out-of-state tuition for them. Or I could re-apply to programs where I can pay in-state tuition, but I still have to wait until Fall 2015. Money is not a big issue to me, but this is my least favorite option because I don't want to have a year with nothing to do
(3) My other option is to attend a Computational Science Master's program in Germany that will let me start for the Fall 2014 semester. It would take at least 3 semesters, but I have to spend just 1 semester on a thesis. Funding is not offered but there are NO tuition fees. I applied to Europe because I thought I might like living in Germany for a bit, but I want the MS degree to be beneficial to me in the US in case I wanted to return in the future. Since I just want a good job after I graduate and don't want to get into research, I don't really care if RWTH Aachen has good research or not
Would I be at a serious disadvantage when applying for jobs against other Computational Science MS holders even if the thesis for my MS in Physics involves lots of numerical methods (such as numerical PDEs)? What kinds of careers could I get into? What grad courses should I take other than numerical PDEs?
Or should I just spend 3 semesters for the program in Germany?
Are computational scientists just as passionate about programming as software engineers are?
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