EE or CE: Making a Major Decision in my 2nd Year

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision-making process for choosing between Electrical Engineering (EE) and Computer Engineering (CE) as a major during the second year of study. Participants share their experiences and preferences regarding programming, job prospects, and the nature of coursework in both fields.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about choosing between EE and CE, highlighting a lack of experience in both fields.
  • Another participant suggests that a preference for programming should influence the decision, indicating that EE may be better for those who dislike programming.
  • Some participants mention enjoying mathematics and microprocessors, which could influence their choice toward EE.
  • Concerns are raised about the programming requirements in CE, particularly regarding classes that may be perceived as difficult, such as compilers.
  • Job prospects and the ability to transition between EE and CE are questioned, with some participants sharing their experiences of using both skill sets in their careers.
  • Discussion includes specific interests within EE, such as digital vs. analog design and the allure of RF design.
  • Participants note that CE involves programming in hardware description languages and assembly, which may not align with those wanting to avoid programming altogether.
  • One participant describes the stress associated with CE compared to EE, suggesting a difference in job experiences.
  • Another participant points out that the programs may not be as similar as perceived, citing differences in course requirements between CE and Computer Science.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the similarities and differences between EE and CE programs, as well as the importance of programming in each field. There is no consensus on which major is preferable, as opinions vary based on personal preferences and experiences.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention specific courses and programming languages relevant to each major, but there is no resolution on the overall difficulty or stress levels associated with either major. The discussion reflects a range of personal experiences and opinions without definitive conclusions.

budala
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I really don't know which major to take; Electrical E or Computer Engineering? When someone says take one you like the most, how would I know which one I like the most if I never worked in that field.

I am in my common 2nd year of EE/CE. After this year I have to declare my major, please what to do? Thank you all.
 
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How much do you like to program? Seems like that would be the first question to ask. I choose EE mainly because I don't like programming that much.
 
kdinser , I really don't like programming that much either, but I do like mathematics, and microprocessors so far it is just intro, this is my 3rd semester.
 
Since you aren't a fan of programming, I would say that EE would be best for you. Howver, as a CE you probably wouldn't do whole lot of programming, but you would still have to take at least a couple of programming classes which could be very annoying, personally. Specially if they require to take take a class on compilers which, I think, is the hardest part of being a CE.
 
Any idea about jobs; same difficulties, and can EE work as CE and vice-versa?
 
My undergrad degree was in a combination EE/CS, so I got both hardware and software classes. And although my MS is in EE, I took several software classes in my MSEE year. I use both skills in my work daily, as well as a combination of them in architectural design issues for whole systems. I am happy doing all hardware for extended periods of time, but I get antsy if I have to write code for long periods of time. There are plenty of EEs here at my work that code 100% of the time, so it's just what you like. If you're not a big fan of architecting and writing software, though, I would think it would be a mistake to pursue the CS degree.
 
What part of EE are you interested in? Digital design or analog?

Find out more about EE branches.

Read up "RF design"

RF can be extremely addictive for some people.
 
You will be doing a lot of programming as CE, but not the kind of programming your use too, its going to be in Hardware description languages, such as VHDL or Verilog most likely and also assembly (not hardware description). IF you want to stay away from all kinds of programming then yes EE is the way to go.

If your interested in pipelining and processor design like making your own ALU, if that seems fun to you, you will like being a CE.
 
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EE and CE are very, very hard and very similar programs, no matter which one you choose to finish everything depends where will you get a job.
CE is more stressful, a nerve wrecking job, IMO.
 
  • #10
I don't see EE and CE as being very smilliar programs at my school anyways. A CE takes 3 more EE courses than a Computer Scientist. Other than that, the courses are exactly the same. I'm still a CE major right now but will be switching to Computer Science and the only course I have to take to switch is to pick up a 2nd language.

I looked at all the higher level 400 courses and the CE takes the same courses as the CS. The only difference is the CS can't take a course in VLSI design/data com/image processing because it requires EE310.

http://www.psu.edu/bulletins/bluebook/courses/cse.htm
 
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