Relevance of Computer Network Expertise for Grad Studies in EE

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relevance of expertise in computer networking for pursuing a master's degree in electrical engineering (EE). Participants explore how experiences in IT, particularly in networking and security, might intersect with interests in embedded systems, optical physics, and computer networks.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern that becoming a network engineer might limit future opportunities in EE, questioning the relevance of networking knowledge for graduate studies.
  • Another participant suggests that expertise in networking could be beneficial, particularly in areas like smart grid technology and the convergence of IT and energy infrastructure.
  • A participant acknowledges the potential marketing aspects of Cisco's offerings but highlights the importance of practical skills gained through networking experience.
  • One contributor asserts that knowledge in networking is particularly valuable for those interested in designing firmware for embedded systems, while its relevance may be less clear for those focused on optical physics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relevance of networking expertise to graduate studies in EE. While some see a strong connection, particularly in emerging fields, others question the direct applicability of networking skills to specific EE interests.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the potential limitations of their experiences and the evolving nature of technology fields, which may influence the relevance of their skills to future studies.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering graduate studies in electrical engineering, particularly those with backgrounds in IT or networking, may find this discussion relevant.

Moneer81
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Hello,

I need some advice regarding my plan to apply for a masters in EE.

I have a BS in physics, and I have been in the workforce for about 5-6 years now. I work in the IT field, with a focus on networking, security, LAN/WAN, etc. I have been offered an exciting opportunity of becoming the network engineer for a large enterprise with a rather complex cloud infrastructure. It is pretty exciting, but I am wondering if it will completely suck me into the world of IT with no hopes of getting out.

So my question is, would this expertise and knowledge that I might get be in any way relevant for my future plan of applying to a graduate program in EE? Can my knowledge of Cisco switches and routers, and my understanding of data packets and of the OSI model come in handy in any way?

My EE interests are embedded systems, optical physics, and I guess if I will have an advantage, computer networks.

Thank you!
 
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I am bit biased but smart grid, 'internet of things', and the convergence of IT networks and energy infrastructure come to my mind immediately.

As a physicist with long-term IT security experience I completed another master's in energy engineering last year, and did a master thesis on the security of smart metering solutions (comparing some of the protocols there, yes - OSI and stuff did come in handy).

CISCO is also offering some 'solutions for the smart grid' - sure, there is a lot of marketing buzz but the formerly distinct fields definitely get closer.
 
thanks elkement! I agree that some of the Cisco offerings are to create marketing buzz. The problem is that as a network engineer you end up doing a lot of router/switch/firewall configuration, so yes you become very good at knowing your Cisco commands, but how relevant is that when you try to enroll in a graduate program?

But yes there are some interesting convergence happening now with big data and emerging cloud technologies. It makes for many interesting opportunities...
 
I work around a lot of people who are leaders on the smart grid effort. If your intent is to design and write firmware for embedded systems then YES this sort of knowledge helps a lot. If your intent is to pursue optical physics, well, it was probably a good learning experience.
 

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