What bothers me in Canada and/or USA

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the naming conventions of engineering programs, specifically the transition from "Electronics" to "Computer Engineering" in universities. Participants express their concerns about public understanding of these terms and the implications for job applications, particularly in the context of the differences between Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Computer Science.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a preference for the term "Electronics" over "Computer Engineering," arguing it would be easier for the general public to understand the distinction between related fields.
  • Another participant counters that "Computer Engineering" sounds more appealing and "cooler" than "Electronics."
  • A participant agrees that "Electrical & Computer Engineering" is a more fitting title, reflecting a blend of both disciplines.
  • Anecdotal evidence is shared about job applications, where a candidate identifying as an "electronics graduate" was favored over a "Computer Engineering graduate," despite both having the same educational background.
  • One participant admits to being unaware that Computer Engineering encompasses electronics, expressing a preference for the term "Electronics" due to its perceived appeal.
  • Another participant clarifies that in America, Computer Engineering and Electronics Engineering are not the same, highlighting differences in coursework and skill sets required for each discipline.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the appropriateness of the terms "Computer Engineering" and "Electronics." While some prefer the former for its modern connotation, others advocate for the latter for clarity and public understanding. The discussion remains unresolved regarding which term is more suitable.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the potential confusion surrounding the distinctions between Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Computer Science, as well as the implications of these terms in professional contexts. There is an acknowledgment of varying educational requirements and public perceptions that contribute to the debate.

budala
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Computer Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Computer Science

I understand the difference between those 3 programs and jobs.

What bothers me is; before universities did have Electronics Program which was replaced by Computer Engineering. I do not like this new name Computer Engineering. I wish it is still called Electronics although the courses are the same. I think it would be much easier for general public to understand who is who. Many ppl still do not understand the difference between Comp Eng and Comp Sc. and it would be much easier for my great granma to know what I am going to do:-)

****Electronics sounds more powerful?
 
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budala said:
Computer Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Computer Science

I understand the difference between those 3 programs and jobs.

What bothers me is; before universities did have Electronics Program which was replaced by Computer Engineering. I do not like this new name Computer Engineering. I wish it is still called Electronics although the courses are the same. I think it would be much easier for general public to understand who is who. Many ppl still do not understand the difference between Comp Eng and Comp Sc. and it would be much easier for my great granma to know what I am going to do:-)

****Electronics sound more powerful?

Sound more powerful?

I think Computer Engineering sounds way cooler.
 
I do agree with him. Some places call it Electrical & Computer engineering. I think it is a more fitting title.

At first, I thought it was computer science with more engineering applications, and not a variation of electrical engineering.
 
My cousin and friend of his applied for a job in Munich in Germany.
During their interwievs my cousin told them He is an electronics graduate and his friend said He was Comp Engineering graduate. The plant manager says I am sorry but the position is more for an electronics guy. Both guys graduated from the same program Computer Engineering at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario.

Guess who got a job, elctronics guy.
 
I had no idea computer engineering was electronics. Electronics sounds cooler. I think I'm just sick of the word "computer".
 
oksanav , me too.
 
But computer engineering ISN'T the same as electronics engineering. At least not in America. An electronics engineer isn't required to take more advanced computer science classes like operating systems, compiler design, and computer networks (the CS version). On the other hand, a computer engineer is probably not taking more advanced electronics courses like CMOS design, low power circuit design, etc.

I think it's good they are called different things.
 

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