Can I switch from EE to other fields?

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SUMMARY

Switching from an Electrical Engineering (EE) undergraduate degree to various graduate fields such as Economics, Computer Science (theoretical and applied), Applied and Computational Mathematics, Chemical Engineering, and Computer Engineering is feasible. The discussion highlights that having a strong foundation in calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, and programming languages significantly aids in transitioning to these fields. While some graduate programs may require specific prerequisite courses, many institutions allow students with diverse undergraduate backgrounds to apply, provided they demonstrate sufficient interest and knowledge in the new field.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of undergraduate Electrical Engineering concepts
  • Familiarity with advanced mathematics, including calculus and linear algebra
  • Knowledge of programming languages
  • Awareness of graduate school application requirements in various fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Research specific graduate program prerequisites for Economics and Computer Science
  • Explore additional coursework options in Applied and Computational Mathematics
  • Investigate the curriculum differences between Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering
  • Read about successful transitions from EE to other fields in academic journals
USEFUL FOR

Undergraduate students in Electrical Engineering considering a shift to graduate studies in diverse fields, academic advisors, and prospective graduate students evaluating their options for further education.

Bipolarity
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Let's say I get my undergrad degree in EE, but then decide to go to a different major for graduate school (i.e. PhD).

Which of the following would it be feasible (or even possible) for me to switch to:
- Economics
- Computer science (theoretical)
- Computer science (applied)
- Applied and computational mathematics
- Chemical engineering
- Computer engineering

This is assuming I graduate having the standard three levels of calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, and probability/statistics for engineers, and perhaps some operations research, numerical analysis, game theory and calculus of variations. Also, I will have learned a ton of programming languages, and taken some thermodynamics classes (which my school forces all engineers to take).

Also, I imagine if I would read a ton about either of these fields if I had a sufficient interest in it. So my problem would not be a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of the actual degree and courseload (and research) that is typical of grad school applicants in the field. I'm curious to know how much that would hurt my chances.

Also, please don't ask me to change my undergrad EE. I am determined to finish my undergrad in EE. That said, all feedback is appreciated! Thanks!

BiP
 
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Your undergrad degree doesn't really affect your graduate choices much more then what college you might get accepted in. Some might require certain courses completed before you can apply so you may have to take additional classes, but usually nothing to terrible. I've seen people get bachelors in one thing and go in a totally opposite direction with their masters/phd.
 
I know computer engineering and EE at my school are greatly intertwined. So much that they had to change the curriculum this year and make computer engineers take more computer science classes so CE and EE didn't end up taking almost the same classes when graduating.
 

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