|
|
|
      | Link me!Link to page from your webpage or MySpace account:
Just copy and paste!<a href='://www.studentsreview.com/docs/major_ce.shtml'>
Over 59500
College Reviews! (3,156 schools reviewed)
</a> | Forward me! |
"What is Computer Engineering -- really?"
|
Undergraduate Computer Engineering
|
|
In theory what is it?
Computer engineering is the study and engineering of computer logic devices and the
software that drives them. A computer logic device is an array of transistors put
together to deliver voltage and signal responses that mirror the elements of Mathematical
Logic (AND , OR ,etc). The responses are timed in a stepwise fashion,
similar to the conductor of a marching band. Using that analogy, Computer Engineering is
the study of how each individual trumpet player marches, expanded to the trumpet section,
finally to the whole marching band; including a study of the sheet music and marching routines
that cause the entire marching band to make nice designs on the football field during halftime.
In reality, different Universities handle the Computer Engineering differently. Because the
delineation between software programming and computer engineering is almost nonexistent ( a result
of both the dependence of computers on software for their Operating System, and the progression to
polymorphic 'software' computers), some Universities focus more on either the hardware aspect of
computer engineering, or the software. Both have their rewards. Programming has results that are
immediately visible on a screen; hardware has a physical, tangible result -- but with a longer
development time. I will say one thing though -- few software CE's truly understand hardware, while
most (if not all) hardware CE's understand software.
Its important to ask a professor in the CE department which they focus on more. Steer away from
programs that are training only software programmers.
What is it used for?
Good Question; Computer Engineering is the most widely applicable field -- not because of the
'skills' you learn, but because corporations put logic devices in everything. _Any_ kind
of logic device, whether it requires explicit software or not, is an application of computer
engineering. Which is why people with CEs are almost never at a loss for a job.
But most of the time -- unless really innovative, CE people just end up as programmer drones.
What does the major actually entail -- work-wise
Computer Engineering entails long hours at the lab sitting in front of the screen
troubleshooting and debugging programming code. In no time, you will develop a 'monitor tan'
& and 'programming belly'. Good exercise is important in this field -- more than others because
so much time is spent sitting.
There is very little (if any) math, but you need to be able to think logically about
problems in a stepwise manner, and be able to evaluate 'exceptions' (times when things happen
in a computer or inputs from a user aren't what you expected).
What kind of jobs do you get with it?
The types of jobs you get with a CE degree generally steer towards programming. If you
get a PhD, then CE takes a turn back towards hardware, where job stability is much higher
than it is for programmers. In general, programming is a high paying, but monotonous &
short lived job. Most programmers are fired in 5 years -- to be replaced by the new college
graduate programmers, who will work for cheaper than they they (and you) are worth.
Hardware engineers on the other hand, take longer to train, and the experience they bring
with years cannot be devaluated or replicated easily.
What are the fellow students like (personalitywise) in it?
Fellow students in CE are by and large very bright, logical thinkers who also have
fragile egos, are 'needy' in relationships, and have low confidence. This is because
a computer screen is not a very good proving ground for confidence and competency. Most
are pale faced, unhappy and hopeful at the same time, and gutless. On the positive side,
they make good friends (once you break by the ego), and their critical thinking can create
the synergetic relationships from which high-tech companies are formed. The atmosphere is
extremely competitive, though quietly so, as most CE students are afraid to speak out -- even
if they know they are right.
Most are looking for a 'way out', as by their Junior year, either through internships or
simply paying attention, have realized the truth of the Dilbert Cartoon and the unfortunate
dynamic of the corporate environment.
Common Misconceptions
A lot of programmers think that they are so good that they will be noticed,
become management, and revolutionize their company as a starting step to the world.
They think their CE degree will pay for itself easily in the first few years, and the
rest of the time they will spend becoming famous for their skill. It is a nice sentiment,
but simply does not happen.
As mentioned, any CE degree has a maximum lifespan of 5 years. If you do not
keep learning new languages and stay ahead of the curve, it will be difficult to keep
your own job -- much less get another.
If you want to get 'ahead', the only way to do it with a management degree (MBA) or by
swallowing the risk and forging on your own for a while. Simply put, people like to categorize
each other. A CE degree marks you as a 'programmer'. And if you can think of any stereotypes of them,
be assured that is what everyone else (including the management, your boss, your friends, and your family
see you as). Doesn't matter how good you are, no one will hire you into management because you are
a good programmer.
I know it is hard to believe, but it is the solid truth.
A lot of Computer Engineers end up going out and becoming independent WebDesigners; to form their
own web design companies -- which is what a lot of you high school students do already with no formal
training at all.
|
StudentsReview : Discussion Board
|
|
|
Main
