CS vs. Mechanical Eng - 2nd degree

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision-making process for pursuing a second undergraduate degree in either Mechanical Engineering or Computer Science. Participants explore the implications of each choice in terms of time commitment, personal interests, and career prospects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a strong interest in Mechanical Engineering, suggesting that pursuing what one loves is crucial for long-term satisfaction.
  • Another participant argues that if the individual seeks a more technical and quantitative field, Computer Science may not fulfill those needs.
  • Concerns are raised about the age of starting an engineering degree at 22/23 and whether finishing at 26/27 is considered late, with some participants emphasizing that there are no strict timelines for education and career paths.
  • Participants share personal experiences, indicating that returning to school at an older age is not uncommon and can lead to fulfilling careers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of pursuing one's interests but express differing views on the suitability of Computer Science versus Mechanical Engineering based on personal and technical preferences. The discussion about age and timing remains unresolved, with varying opinions on what constitutes "late" for starting a degree.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about personal fulfillment, career satisfaction, and the nature of technical studies are present but not explicitly defined. The discussion does not resolve the comparative merits of the two fields or the implications of age on educational pursuits.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering a return to school for a second degree, particularly in STEM fields, as well as those weighing the pros and cons of different engineering and computer science paths.

DewYouKnow8
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Hi everyone,

I am new to the forum, so please let me know if I have made any mistakes in my posting location.

As mentioned in the title, I am returning to school for a second undergrad degree. My first degree was in Business Administration - which did not satisfy my academic needs (to say the least). I have always enjoyed more technical degrees and have long contemplated taking a STEM-based degree. I graduated in 4 years and I am now 22. Which leads me to my question:

(As many of you have much more experience than I do in many academic and career disciplines, I welcome any input.)

I am interested in pursuing a second degree in either Mechanical Engineering or Computer Science. Mechanical Engineering would take another full 4 years to complete, while CS would take only 2-2.5 years to complete. I have interests in both. I know both faculties offer good job prospects and a decent learning experience. Also, I enjoy programming (the little I know) and find CS topics interesting, however I do not know if I could sit behind a desk pressing buttons for my entire career. I know CS has become widely used in almost all technologies and many of the ones I am most interested in (automotive, security, avionics), however I feel more interested in Mechanical (but 4 more years for a bachelors.. yikes). What would you do?

Thank you everyone. Any input is very much appreciated.
 
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DewYouKnow8 said:
I feel more interested in Mechanical
In the long run, doing what you love will be the best decision you make.
 
If you are looking for something more technical and quantitative to study then I don't think CS will sate you.
 
Greg Bernhardt said:
In the long run, doing what you love will be the best decision you make.
esuna said:
If you are looking for something more technical and quantitative to study then I don't think CS will sate you.

Do you guys think that starting an engineering degree at 22/23 and finishing at 26/27 seems late? (Not that I am too concerned)
 
DewYouKnow8 said:
Do you guys think that starting an engineering degree at 22/23 and finishing at 26/27 seems late? (Not that I am too concerned)
Late for what? You got a long life. Don't feel pressured to do anything. There are no rules. No set plans for how to live. We have members who went back to school in their 40s and now have a completely different career.
 

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