Is Studying Cybernetics Engineering Worth It?

The decision to embark on a Bachelor's degree in Cybernetics Engineering is a significant one, prompting questions about the return on investment in terms of career prospects and personal interest. While the field of cybernetics has garnered considerable attention, my own experience, dating back about 25 years, might offer some valuable insights.

My Perspective from 25 Years Ago

Let me introduce myself as someone who holds a Bachelor's degree in Cybernetics from around two and a half decades ago. My single piece of substantial data point is my own journey. Interestingly, the direct impact of my studies on my career has been minimal. The practical application of my computer science knowledge has been more influential.

Focus on Computer Science

During my studies in cybernetics, I had a fair understanding of programming already. Therefore, the practical skills I gained in computer science, rather than the theory of cybernetics, were more likely to have played a role in my job prospects. The theory of cybernetics, with less practical application, did not seem to significantly influence my career path.

Peer Experiences and Job Outlook

Reflecting on the experiences of my peers, I haven't heard of anyone else benefitting from their cybernetics degree in securing positions within a related field. This anecdotal evidence suggests that the degree might not provide as much career leverage as some might hope.

The Fun Side

There is one redeeming quality that kept my interest in cybernetics alive: the joy of working with robots and innovative technology. Even though the direct career benefits have been limited, the hands-on experience and the exposure to cutting-edge technologies remain valuable. It's also worth noting that my experience might not be representative of all cybernetics graduates, as there could be a variety of factors at play.

Is Cybernetics Engineering a Good Choice?

Given the information available, here’s a breakdown of what studying cybernetics engineering might entail:

Advantages and Considerations

Theoretical Understanding: Cybernetics offers a deep dive into the principles of control systems and feedback mechanisms, which are fundamental in robotics and automation.

Interdisciplinary Focus: The field often intersects with disciplines like biology, psychology, and computer science, making it a rich area of study.

Competitive Job Market: Competition for jobs, especially in computer science and related fields, is high. A degree in cybernetics might not provide a clear career path in itself.

Career Flexibility: With the right additional skills and certifications, graduates might find opportunities in fields like robotics, automation, and system design.

Conclusion

Studying cybernetics engineering can be an enlightening experience, especially for those interested in the interplay between technology and living systems. However, it’s crucial to consider the practical application of your knowledge and the broader job market trends when making the decision to pursue this degree.

The value of a cybernetics degree is highly individual and context-dependent. While it can certainly enrich your understanding of complex systems and digital control, the career outcomes may not be as straightforward as other technical degrees like computer science.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal goals, interests, and the skills you wish to develop. Do your research, talk to current students and professionals in the field, and weigh the options carefully before making a choice.