Which Engineering Major is Best for AI and Software Development?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around selecting an appropriate major for pursuing a career in AI and software development, specifically considering options such as Computer Science (CS), Computer Engineering, and Physics at UCSD. Participants explore the implications of each choice on future job prospects and skill development.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that CS or Computer Engineering would adequately prepare someone for a career in software development, emphasizing the importance of personal interest in the choice.
  • Another participant expresses a personal preference for CS but acknowledges that the decision ultimately lies with the individual.
  • A participant notes that additional math and physics courses could be beneficial for AI design and algorithms, indicating a potential advantage of an engineering major.
  • Concerns are raised about the curriculum of Computer Engineering, specifically regarding the inclusion of optics and electromagnetic fields courses, suggesting that these may not always be part of the program.
  • One participant argues that AI is primarily a domain of CS and questions the relevance of considering Physics as a major for this career path.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the relevance of Physics as a major for AI and software development, with some favoring CS or Computer Engineering. There is no consensus on which major is definitively better, indicating a range of perspectives on the topic.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the importance of checking specific degree plans for Computer Engineering to ensure relevant courses are included. There is also an acknowledgment of the varying prerequisites for different majors, which may influence decision-making.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering engineering or computer science majors with an interest in AI and software development may find this discussion relevant.

Fancypen
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I have a chance to take either CS, Computer Engineering, Physics, or any other engineering major offered by UCSD.

What do you think would be the better choice for someone interested in AI/software developer?

I think CS, but I am able to take any CSE major and it's "harder" (more pre-reqs) to get into the engineering majors, so I figure: why not go with one of them?

Any thoughts.

P.S. I have on idea what it's like in the job market for CSE majors. I just love coding, problem solving, and creating innovated projects.
 
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If you want to be a software developer then computer science or computer engineering would both adequately prepare you. Choose whichever interests you most. Roughly speaking, computer engineering is half computer science and half electrical engineering.
 
I would choose CS personally, but your choice!
 
Sounds good. The extra math, like differential equations, and extra physics, like E &M/waves and optics, will probably help if I get into AI design/algorithms. Thanks again!
 
Comp E don't always take optics and EM fields courses so best to check the schools degree plan to make sure they're included.
 
snowman_ said:
Comp E don't always take optics and EM fields courses so best to check the schools degree plan to make sure they're included.
It's a bit of a long story, but I need to take all those classes regardless if I go CS or engineering.
 
Fancypen said:
What do you think would be the better choice for someone interested in AI/software developer?

AI is pretty much a CS domain. Software development is either CS or Computer Engineering. Not sure why you would even consider physics.
 

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