Computer Science/ Aerospace with minor of the other?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the career paths in aerospace and computer science for high school students interested in programming and aerospace engineering. It highlights the importance of understanding engineering problems alongside programming skills, particularly in the context of aerospace companies like NASA and SpaceX. The consensus suggests that majoring in Aerospace Engineering with a minor in Computer Science is advantageous, as it provides broader career options while emphasizing the need for a solid foundation in engineering principles. Additionally, the conversation notes that embedded software in aerospace is conservative due to safety concerns, requiring meticulous attention to detail.

PREREQUISITES
  • Aerospace Engineering fundamentals
  • Computer Science programming concepts
  • Understanding of embedded systems
  • Knowledge of physics principles
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Aerospace Engineering degree programs and their curricula
  • Explore Computer Science minors and their relevance to aerospace applications
  • Investigate embedded software development in aerospace contexts
  • Learn about dynamics and controls in aerospace engineering
USEFUL FOR

High school students aspiring to enter the aerospace field, educators advising students on career paths, and professionals considering a transition into aerospace programming roles.

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Hello, I am currently a Junior in high school. I want to be involved with the aerospace field, especially space ships in general. I've been looking at random careers for NASA, SpaceX, and other aerospace companies and noticed their programming careers that involve programming the ships and such. I've always thought that I would be an aerospace engineer, but ever since I took a computer science class in school I love - absolutely love - programming, and want to expand on that. So I was wondering if I should major in Computer Science and possibly get some sort of physics minor, or if this will be a very tough way to make it into aerospace. Otherwise, I may go back to Aerospace engineering.
 
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I think a major in Aerospace and a minor in Comp Sci would give you more options than the other way round - but it may also be a more challenging course at college.

You are right that may people working in Aerospace do some programming as part of their work, but the number of "full-time" programming jobs is quite small, and they may be subcontracted out to small specialist companies. Undestanding the real engineering problem which needs to be solved is still as important (or more so) than just understanding the computer science.

Much of the specilized "embedded" software in aerospace that actually goes into the end products (autopilots, engine control systems, etc) is very conservative compared with the "leading edge" of computing technology, because of the safety and reliability issues involved. In that sort of work you need the mindset where you are not bothered that everything you do will to be checked and reviewed many times by other people, in the most nit-picking detail. Working in that sort of environment is not for everybody.
 
Many programmers get there minor in physics and end up making things like physics SDK's. And many people who have majored in physics end up as programmers. So either way is fine, but if you really like programming, I would suggest majoring in it. You can always get a masters in something else if you find its less fun then you thought or dual degree.
 
I'd do an aero major, CS minor, and focus on dynamics and controls for your aero work.
 

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