Which path is right for me: CS+EE or Computer Engineering?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the comparison between pursuing a CS+EE (Computer Science and Electrical Engineering) double major versus a degree in Computer Engineering. Participants explore the implications of each path, including their focus areas and potential career outcomes.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire for both skill sets and questions whether Computer Engineering, which they believe combines aspects of CS and EE with a focus on hardware, is more appropriate.
  • Another participant challenges the notion of a computer scientist having hardware skills, implying a potential disconnect between the fields.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that a CS+EE degree is beneficial for embedded programming, highlighting the integration of computer programs with electronics in applications like aviation.
  • One participant notes that the definition of Computer Engineering varies by college, often blending elements of EE and CS, and mentions the possibility of specializing in software or hardware.
  • Concerns are raised about the feasibility of a CS+EE double major due to limited overlap and the challenging nature of both fields, suggesting that pursuing a master's degree might be a more efficient use of time.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views regarding the merits and challenges of each educational path, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved with no consensus reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying assumptions about the overlap between CS and EE programs, the nature of Computer Engineering, and the time commitment required for a double major versus a master's degree.

Blackwinter
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I desire both these skill sets, but I was wondering if computer engineering would be more appropriate, as I am under the impression that it is a mix of both CS and EE, but with a focus on computer hardware. If someone could enlighten me to the main differences between these two paths that would be amazing.

To reiterate: CS+EE vs. Computer engineering.

Thank you.
 
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A computer scientist with hardware skills? Does not compute.
 
A CS+EE degree would be a great combination for embedded programming. For instance, an airplane has a computer program that gets inputs from pilot controls, accelerometers, and air data sensors and controls surface actuators to fly the airplane. There is a lot of CS and a lot of electronics that is not specific to computers. The computer engineering would concentrate on the computer circuit electronics. Both are exciting fields and can offer a long career. Which to pick depends on your interests. And don't assume that you need to stay in a career that exactly matches your degree. Most people move around a lot.
 
It depends on the college. In a lot of colleges "Computer Engineering" is kind of a mix of EE and CS. Typically there is a lot of room to specialize in the major. At my college, if you majored in Computer Engineer you could emphasize software or hardware in your electives, or do a balance.

The problem with a CS+EE double major is that they don't overlap all that much and they are both very challenging. It will take you at least 5 years (maybe more) to pull it off. In my opinion you would do better to spend that time getting a master's in EE, CS, or Computer Engineering.
 
Life transforming advice Analogdesign!

That sounds perfectly right in my gut.

Thanks again.
 
Blackwinter said:
Life transforming advice Analogdesign!

That sounds perfectly right in my gut.

Thanks again.

No problem! I went through all the same excitement and confusion when I was younger and I was lucky to have some wise mentors advise me. I'm happy to pay that forward.

Regards.
 

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