Is electrical engineering a good major for machine learning/AI jobs?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the suitability of electrical engineering as a major for pursuing careers in machine learning and artificial intelligence. Participants explore the relationship between the major and the interests of the original poster, who has a strong affinity for math, job security, and physics but is less interested in hands-on building.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that electrical engineering could be a good fit due to the math and physics involved, aligning with the original poster's interests.
  • Others recommend narrowing down to a specific specialty within machine learning or AI, emphasizing the importance of a strong math background.
  • One participant proposes considering a career in medical physics as an alternative, noting that it may require additional education and training beyond an undergraduate degree.
  • A participant shares a resource link to an article that may provide further insights into degrees relevant to artificial intelligence.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on whether electrical engineering is the best choice for the original poster, with some advocating for it while others suggest alternative paths. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal major.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a consensus on the best major, and there are varying assumptions about the relevance of electrical engineering to machine learning and AI careers.

Syandan21
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Hello,

I am looking into electrical engineering because I think it is an awesome major because of the math and physics involved. I am not really into building things though. I love software and computer science-related things, but I do not want to major in CS because it is a very popular major.

So is electrical engineering a good degree for me or should I look into something else?

Things I like:
Math
Lots of job security
A strong salary
Physics

Considering this, what should I major in? Should I stick to electrical engineering, or consider something else?
 
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It would help you if you could narrow down to a (sub)specialty within machine learning, AI. A strong Math background will help you in either one you choose. You may likely enter as a Data Engineer. Good luck, keep us posted.
 
Syandan21 said:
So is electrical engineering a good degree for me or should I look into something else?

Things I like:
Math
Lots of job security
A strong salary
Physics

Considering this, what should I major in? Should I stick to electrical engineering, or consider something else?

If you're really not attached to AI and machine learning, but are mainly looking for a career path that ticks off your boxes, you should consider a career in medical physics. If you do a search, you will find many relevant threads. It will require education and training beyond an undergrad degree, however. If you are interested, there is at least one medical physicist here who could advise you on suitable undergrad curriculum. If you wish to pursue this, start a third thread.
 

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