Is a Double Degree in Electrical Engineering Honours and Computer Science Worth the Effort?

The decision to pursue a double degree in electrical engineering honours and computer science can be complex, depending on your educational background and career aspirations. It is essential to understand the nuances of the programs and the specific skills and knowledge they offer. Let's explore the intricacies of these programs and whether they are worth the investment.

Definition of Electrical Engineering in Different Contexts

In the U.S., the boundaries between electrical engineering (EE) and computer science (CS) are often more defined. Electrical engineering typically encompasses a broader range of topics, including power systems, radio frequency (RF) engineering, control systems, and signal processing. Meanwhile, computer science focuses more on digital logic, algorithms, and software development. However, in the European-centric context, which is common in universities across Latin America, Africa, and Asia, electrical engineering (EE) and electronic engineering are often combined with a focus on power engineering, RF engineering, and electronic circuit design.

The Strategic Combination of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

The combination of electrical engineering and computer science can indeed be strategically beneficial, particularly for highly competitive and prestigious career paths. In the U.S.-styled educational system, this dual-major approach is particularly advantageous for careers in research focused on system-technology co-optimization (STCO) or financial engineering. This degree can also prepare you for roles in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science, among others.

However, to make the most of this degree, one must be strategic about course selection. Electrical engineering courses such as semiconductor device physics, solid-state physics, and control systems could be prioritized over less relevant topics like power engineering. Additionally, taking courses that are more in line with digital hardware and electronic circuits, such as digital integrated circuit design, computer architecture, and signal processing, can provide a strong foundation for careers in computer engineering and technology-focused industries. Machine learning, pattern recognition, and intermediate applied statistics, along with courses in data structures and algorithms, are also highly recommended.

Technical Electives and Career Prospects

Absent formal minors, U.S. engineering degrees rely on technical electives, which are often limited. These electives can only broaden your educational experience and make you proficient in multiple areas. However, the required courses are extensive, such as freshman chemistry, calculus, statics and dynamics, physics, and typically four semesters of calculus. The rigors of these courses can be challenging, and many aspiring engineers may drop out. On the other hand, computer science requires 2 to 4 semesters of calculus; if your college requires four, consider transferring to a more lenient institution to avoid unnecessary stress.

When considering a double degree, it is crucial to think strategically. While the required engineering courses can be demanding, the additional skills and knowledge from a computer science major can significantly enhance your employment prospects. You might also need to complete one major before the other, so be prepared for the possibility of a longer duration in college.

Conclusion

Whether pursuing a double degree in electrical engineering honours and computer science is worthwhile depends largely on your career goals and the specific opportunities available in the job market. If you are interested in areas such as research, system-technology co-optimization, financial engineering, or interdisciplinary fields like artificial intelligence and data science, then this double degree can be very rewarding. However, it is important to carefully plan your course selection and be prepared for the challenges associated with the required coursework.