Want to study computer science and do computer engineering

Click For Summary
To transition from a physics background to computer engineering and computer science, focus on mastering programming languages and understanding algorithms and data structures, as these are foundational to the field. Engage in numerical problem-solving using programming to reinforce learning. Explore resources like Processing.org for interactive Java graphics, or utilize Python and Julia for numerical analysis. While it’s tempting to learn a wide array of topics such as operating systems, computer networks, and artificial intelligence, prioritize the fundamentals of algorithms and data structures, as they underpin more complex concepts. Time management is crucial; it's unrealistic to master all areas before pursuing a PhD. Consider integrating your studies with practical applications, such as computer modeling, which can incorporate networking and big data analysis. Ultimately, focus on a few key areas to avoid overwhelming yourself, and consider collaborating with peers to cover additional topics.
rahaverhma
Messages
73
Reaction score
1
I am now studying physics( B. Sc.) I want to do computer engineering and want to have in-depth knowledge of comp. Sci.. Because my interest lies there also.
So, please do tell me what should I I do now and in the future, now iIam doing my best by learning programming but want to do some other things also.
 
Technology news on Phys.org
Try doing your physics problems numerically using hatever programming language you know. That's how I've always learned a new language.

Alternatively you could explore the processing.org website and learn some Java with interactive graphics with the processing environment. They have a lot of cool examples to check out.

Other alternatives are numerical Python or Julia and the anaconda distribution
 
  • Like
Likes QuantumQuest
Also try to learn algorithms. You may already have some knowledge about algorithms if you have done some programming but expand it as much as you can. CS is all about algorithms and a very effective way to learn good programming, is trying to implement algorithms in a gradual manner regarding difficulty. You can apply this strategy to your physics problems. Expanding to other fields of problems is also very important in learning algorithms. Also, data structures are of equal importance. An efficient algorithm requires efficient data structure(s) in order to construct an efficient program. Whether your goal is to go for computer engineering or theoretical CS after the basic undergraduate concepts, making the well known phrase in CS "Can we do better?" a part of your everyday vocabulary regarding the solution of problems, is in my opinion the way to go.
 
I actually meant that in CS there are: Dis. Structures, data structures, computer networks, implementation of programming, operating systems, computer architecture, digital logic design, artificial intelligence, etc. I want to learn them all. And in my b. Sc only programming in c++is taught. So, again how do iI manage my time and could iI completely get all these before my P. HD.
 
You can't learn them all in the time of your PhD without distracting from it. What you need are the fundamentals of algorithms and data structures. Everything else is built on those two subjects.

Operating systems are programs that manage and run other programs. They use a lot of tables to manage their resources and worry about paging memory, thread and process separation all done via algorithms and data structures. Computer networking was added to Operating systems as the OS capabilities extended to cooperate with other computers.

AI employs many kinds of algorithms and data structures to organize information and make predictions about what will happen.

...

So start with a programming language and begin to learn about algorithms and data structures perhaps in the conetxt of computer modeling which would fit within your PhD needs. The modeling work will bring in networking for distributed computing of your models, databases as you analyze big data... nd later you can consider delviing more deeply into these once you get your PhD.
 
  • Like
Likes QuantumQuest
rahaverhma said:
I actually meant that in CS there are: Dis. Structures, data structures, computer networks, implementation of programming, operating systems, computer architecture, digital logic design, artificial intelligence, etc. I want to learn them all. And in my b. Sc only programming in c++is taught. So, again how do iI manage my time and could iI completely get all these before my P. HD.
- Stay with physics and invent the sixty hours day first, or:
- move to biology and invent some brain enhancer pill, or:

- give up and pick just one or two from that list.
- additionally you can get some friends and colleagues who can do the rest for you.
 
Learn If you want to write code for Python Machine learning, AI Statistics/data analysis Scientific research Web application servers Some microcontrollers JavaScript/Node JS/TypeScript Web sites Web application servers C# Games (Unity) Consumer applications (Windows) Business applications C++ Games (Unreal Engine) Operating systems, device drivers Microcontrollers/embedded systems Consumer applications (Linux) Some more tips: Do not learn C++ (or any other dialect of C) as a...

Similar threads

  • · Replies 102 ·
4
Replies
102
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K