The question of getting another degree in programing/computer science is very interesting! I see a compelling need for this in the future. My personal opinion is that if a CE did get a computer degree, it would be very valuable but also very unique. It would be difficult to gain mastery of both but if one were able to master both over time, then she/he would be in high demand. I have a former classmate that began his career in chemical engineering then went to law school and specialized in patent and intellectual property law. He is very specialized and very well compensated. The down side is, if one is looking for entry level employment it might not add much value to the masses at the start. But, one would be on the leading edge of a future in demand skill.
Like Chad mentioned I took C++, python, and MatLab in my general undergrad engineering courses many years ago, but in no way do I consider myself good at those tasks. Just the basic understanding. I'm also certain our academic friends and our friends at ABET would tell us the curriculum is already very prescriptive and under-pressure from some of the public and legislators for less coursework, not more. So it would unfortunately, need to be a whole separate degree or credential.
On a aside note, this week, we were working with a company that is developing our core software and he mentioned potential programming candidates demanding very high salaries, some near $400K a year. He may have been overstating it for effect but, if true seems like a healthy career to me!
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Jesse Kamm PhD, PMP, A.M.ASCE
Senior Vice President of Construction Management
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-18-2019 09:44
From: Chad Morrison
Subject: Addition of Computer Science
Most engineering curriculum include basic programing courses. Math based programing (matrix analysis) by hand and using blank slate software (Mathlab) are critical to understanding how the software we use as engineers is created and functions. It can help us in creating our own programs to solve problems. Math based programing is a fundamental approach that does not change with time. Learning a specific programing language does not always maintain the same level of relevance.
I do see an advantage to an engineer who wants to have a dual major or a minor in computer science. It would be a unique combination that would appeal to some employers. There is also opportunity for an engineer to further develop new structural analysis software which is always in demand. Without every student becoming a dual major, maybe universities can provide more opportunities for different majors to interact with each other. This way the engineers have an understanding of what the computer science majors are learning across the quad. It is amazing how strong university cliques can be!
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Chad Morrison P.E., M.ASCE
Professional Engineer
Greenville RI
Original Message:
Sent: 09-17-2019 09:48
From: Sean Ellis
Subject: Addition of Computer Science
Hello, all!
I have been grappling with an idea all summer and wanted to reach out for some feedback. The article in CE magazine earlier this summer, "Future World Vision" (June 2019) gave real scenarios demonstrating that STEM fields are trending toward digital spaces. This study made me question the need for an additional degree in computer science or computer engineering to serve in conjunction with my existing engineering degree.
As we rely on computers more heavily, is it necessary for engineers in the digital era to take more computer science related courses? Should we take courses in programming and data infrastructures in order to stay ahead of, or in step with, new technologies? Will it be necessary to have full degrees in engineering and computer science in order to stay relevant in our field?
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Sean Ellis EIT, A.M.ASCE
Civil Engineer
Parkhill, Smith & Cooper
Midland TX
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