Mechanical Engineer vs. Computer Engineer

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the choice between pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering (ME) versus Computer Engineering (CE). Participants share insights on job market prospects, salary expectations, and personal experiences related to both fields.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a passion for problem-solving through design and implementation, seeking insights on job market conditions and salaries in both disciplines.
  • Another participant notes that there are significant variations within both Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science.
  • A participant advocates for Mechanical Engineering, describing it as broader and more traditional, while suggesting that Computer Engineering may feel like a mix of electrical and computer science disciplines.
  • Concerns are raised about the perceived vulnerability of Computer Engineering to outsourcing, while Mechanical Engineering is described as having persistent demand in the job market.
  • A participant shares their personal experience as a Mechanical Engineer, indicating that interest in design is crucial and that both fields can lead to good job opportunities, with a humorous note about gender demographics in Computer Engineering.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of finding personal passion in either field, suggesting that satisfaction and financial success will follow.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the security and breadth of Mechanical Engineering compared to Computer Engineering. While some advocate for the traditional nature of Mechanical Engineering, others highlight the evolving landscape of Computer Engineering. No consensus is reached on which discipline is definitively better.

Contextual Notes

Participants' views are influenced by personal experiences and perceptions of job market trends, which may vary based on location and industry changes. The discussion reflects a range of assumptions about job security and personal fulfillment in both fields.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a career in engineering, particularly those weighing the options between Mechanical and Computer Engineering, may find this discussion helpful.

Randy Johnson
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Hello everyone, I am in my first year at University, and I have to choose what discipline to enter. I am passionate about designing, testing, and implementing various ways to solve problems, and I found I can do this in both disciplines just in different ways. From previous job experience, I enjoy working with my hands and using mathematics, but I am also concerned with finding a job and salary(why I won't choose electrical).
If anyone could give me any insight into the current and projected job market, starting salaries as well as actual working conditions it would be greatly appreciated.

So, Mechanical or Computer Engineering? Any and all information would be extremely helpful!

Thank you so much,
 
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there are still a lots of variation inside mechanical engineering and computer science.
 
I would choose mechanical engineering as its more broad. Computer engineering sounds like a half electrical/electronics degree mixed in with computer science, but both are good for jobs I imagine (as all engineering degrees are vocationally/professionally oriented).

IN all honesty, stick to the traditional engineering disciplines like mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering and you need not worry. Things with titles like mechatronics, industrial, electronics, computer are more specialised. But both degrees you mentioned are good for job security and innovation
 
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Mechanical engineering is a traditional discipline with persistent demand in the job market. Computer engineering is more a flavor of the day field and vulnerable to outsourcing. In all fairness, plenty of good and good paying job opportunities exist in both fields, but, IMO ME offers a broader road and more secure future. Of course, as a retired ME, I feel obligated to warn - past results are no guarantee of future performance.
 
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I am Mechanical engineer i studied in India and now working in Fiji Islands as CAD technician so, for me Mechanical engineering was not thay interested but i have lot interest in designing so i choose drawing and designing and i am having my goals... so i wanted to tell you , find your interest where its mech or comp its not matter you like mathematics so both is good but, Mechanical engineering can bring you more money and Usuals do IT field. (NOTE: more girls in computer engineering).
 
first find your passion either to be ME or CE then follow it , you will find money and satisfaction
 

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