Can You Go Into Engineering With a Computer Science Degree?
Computer science and engineering are both technical fields that require analytical thinking. With the right strategy, computer science graduates can get into engineering.
Engineering is an expansive field that has many sub-fields and career paths within it. Because there are so many types of engineers, there is no single path to becoming an engineer. The qualifications needed depend on the specific branch of engineering pursued.
A computer science degree provides skills that can be used in some areas of engineering. Computer science graduates can become engineers if they apply for roles that take advantage of their previous training. Find out how to start a successful engineering career with a computer science degree.
Is It Possible for Computer Science Majors To Pursue an Engineering Career?
Yes, a bachelor's degree in computer science (CS) is an extremely valuable degree due to its many applications, including some branches of engineering. Computer science teaches students many fundamental skills that are used across a wide range of STEM fields.
A CS degree will give students an understanding of multi-purpose subjects such as:
- data structures
- information systems
- problem-solving
- system design
- data analytics
- linear algebra
- project management
With an optimal strategy and a little additional training, computer science grads can thrive in some areas of engineering.
Different areas of engineering will have different certification processes. Engineering specializations such as electrical engineering have public safety implications and may require further training.
The most straightforward area of engineering for computer science graduates to enter is computer engineering. Computer engineering has three further sub-domains:
- computer hardware engineering
- software engineering
- computer network engineering
A computer science degree will give students training in computer programming languages such as Python or Java and can lead directly to employment as a software engineer. Computer scientists are typically skilled programmers and software developers.
Hardware and network engineering are slightly more specialized fields but both are easily within reach for computer science graduates. Taking a few training courses can give students with a computer science background the skill set they need to qualify for engineering jobs in network engineering or hardware engineering.
Learn more: What Are the Requirements for Becoming an Engineer in the U.S.?
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How Engineering and Computer Science Are Related
Computer science and engineering have several key areas of overlap. Both fields will make use of analytical reasoning and advanced technology. Experts in both fields will look to use established methods to approach and solve problems logically. Here are some of the ways computer science and engineering are similar.
Technology Advancements
Computer science and engineering both strive to be on the cutting edge of technological advancement. While computer scientists mainly solve technology problems in the digital sphere, engineers extend this to hardware, machinery, electronics, biochemistry, and more.
Both fields generate many tech startups and value innovative solutions to problems. The creation and design of computer hardware was a major engineering success that enabled the digital era.
Continuing Education and Research
Whether students earn a computer science degree or an engineering degree, they will do well to continue learning throughout their professional journeys.
Computer science and engineering are both rapidly advancing fields that require continual education as new methods develop. Students in either field should seek out internships to get real-world work experience and see how seasoned professionals continue to hone their craft.
Engineering and computer science are both active areas of research that can provide exciting career options. Computer science students will have the data science and quantitative skills to succeed in research. Students interested in research careers should pursue at least a master's degree in a related field.
Computational Techniques
Many areas of engineering rely heavily on advanced computer systems to design structures, test for flaws, and implement solutions. Computer science graduates will have a deep understanding of the logical structures and algorithms that underpin most computational techniques.
Many engineering fields are in need of skilled technicians and the computational abilities computer science graduates possess can lead to many job opportunities. Computer science graduates should look for engineering roles that have a programming or software emphasis.
Hardware Integration
Hardware is one of the areas of computer science that overlaps the most heavily with engineering. Effective hardware design and construction requires complex methods from material sciences.
Many advances in computer science required engineering breakthroughs that enabled more efficient processors and microchips. Computer science students with an interest in hardware are highly likely to succeed in engineering.
Data Analysis
Both engineers and computer scientists need to be adept at handling and analyzing all types of data. Computer scientists will use machine learning and artificial intelligence strategies to gain new insights from big data sets.
Engineers also function like data scientists when they analyze the results of processes they have designed and find patterns in complex measurements. Computer science degree programs can prepare students for the types of data analysis that will be used in engineering.
Tips for Pursuing an Engineering Career for Computer Science Majors
Here are some ways to streamline your engineering career. Entering engineering as a computer science major requires ingenuity and planning.
Consider Earning a Second Degree
Depending on the area of engineering you want to pursue, a second degree might make sense. If you have a bachelor's degree in computer science you may not need to complete a second bachelor's degree.
Look at master's programs in your desired area of engineering and check the prerequisites. Computer science graduates will likely have taken classes like calculus and linear algebra that engineering grad programs will look for. Speak to an admissions counselor to make sure the program fits your long-term goals and needs.
Develop Engineering Skills
The best way to enter any field is to develop practical skills in that area. While some fields will require professional certifications, being able to demonstrate solid professional skills can get you a long way.
Finding internships or entry-level positions can help you build these practical skills and develop your resume. Some jobs may even help cover the cost of licenses or training courses.
Determine Your Engineering Focus
Engineering is a loosely defined term that can be applied to many fields. Because engineering is such a broad field, the area of engineering to pursue is a crucial choice for computer science graduates.
Software engineering is extremely close to computer science and will require little additional training. Students who studied cybersecurity may excel as information security engineers with little difficulty. Robotics is another stimulating field that blends computer science and engineering.
By contrast, some areas of engineering such as mechanical engineering, aeronautical engineering, and biomedical engineering may require very specific skills that are not typically taught in computer science programs.
Gain Practical Experience
Practical experience is one of the first things employers will look for on any job application or resume. Classroom learning is valuable but going through the day-to-day challenge of a profession typically provides a different type of insight.
One strategy for computer science graduates is to look for general employment in a large company such as Amazon and then aim to switch to an engineering role internally. Some companies will help employees retrain and switch careers.
Network With Engineering Professionals
Technical skills are a key component of an engineering career but social skills and networking can also open many doors. Attempt to identify a number of engineering professionals with job roles you would be interested in and introduce yourself.
Professionals will often be open to sharing tips when approached genuinely by individuals who display interest in the field. You never know where the next job opportunity might come from.
